ALBUMS ALBUM OF THE MONTH

RAS RAS III

Botnis

Formed in 2018, RAS is a Berlin-based, Israeli-born trio that soak up international influences to deliver a swashbuckling, melting pot of far-flung sounds. The multi-instrumentalists and producers Dekel Adin, Eden Leshem, and Guy Gefen released their impressive debut album in early 2019, their much lauded follow up in 2020 and now continue in the same vein with their third is their most potent and addictive work to date. Blending influences from Greek, Turkish African and Arabic music, the trio explore a swirling mix of psychedelic soul, west coast hip-hop, Mediterranean disco, vintage funk, jazz and R&B. Pitched-down, slow and groove-driven, the record is a sensual, visceral workout that is laidback and breezy, but packed with plenty of soul. Utilising a heady mix of vintage drum machines, shimmering synths, tape machines, bongos, horns, funky guitar lines, expressive drums and low-slung bass, the trio create a sprawling landscape that is full of personality and life. There is a retro, neon-inducing, boogie aesthetic that runs throughout the entire album, adding a balmy, hedonistic atmosphere. Smooth, laidback, hypnotic and funky, captures the trio’s all-embracing, open-minded and inclusive attitude towards music. Crossing continents, styles and atmospheres with consummate ease, RAS are developing into the sort of act that connects people and brings us closer together in this time of global strife. A dynamic and diverse record that embraces difference and soaks up experience, this is RAS at their distinctive and expressive best.