Multi-talented artists MK Zulu and Harry Gray have been on our radar for a minute now, and after dropping several singles, they return with their full-length project, One More Time. The 10-track body of work explores love, human connections and their love for genres like soul, funk, jazz-rap, and hip-hop. Inspired by acts like D’Angelo, Chaka Khan & Rufus, Lauryn Hill, Kindred the Family Soul, and Anderson .Paak, the duo leap off the foundation set by their predecessors and give the world a refreshing body of work that stands the test of time.

“Soul Train” featuring TurnUpDeante is an anthemic piece filled with triumphant horn passes, layered textures and punchy grooves. It features TurnUpDeante, who does the guitar arrangement, and even though it is devoid of verses, Harry Gray and MK Zulu’s recurring melodic chant serves as an introduction of sorts, which helps set the stage for the rest of the project. The next track, “Like You,” is a mid-tempo soul/funk/hip-hop infused piece that evokes raw nostalgia. Here, the singer bares his all on wax with adulation-filled lyrics about that special someone who came into his life with the warmth of sunshine. Armed with his distinctive husky melodic vocal tone and energetic rap flow, he weaves through singing and rapping with lines like “There’s something ‘bout you but can’t put it to name/So promise, girl give me one chance if you feeling the same” and proceeds to declare his true feelings and intentions for her.  On “Water,” featuring Coby Williams, listeners are introduced to the duo’s genre-bending funk/soul sounds with a touch of contemporary elements. The production is layered, vibrant, and the vocal arrangement reaches a fever pitch on the chorus section. Just as the title says, it flows effortlessly like water. The duo continue to push their musical boundaries and on “One More Time,” they crank up the heat with a punchy dance/soul number tailored made for the private lounges and house parties. A solid blend of catchiness, soulful melodies and an irresistible groove to complete the job.

“Passport Baby” is an upbeat, soulful jam that screams summertime. The track is punctuated by its uplifting and empowering theme, which pays homage to women pushing through the craziness of life. Backed by the punchy grooves and layered instrumentation, the singer details how he treats his lady, reassuring her that he will always make her smile. This sets the stage for “Tango,” featuring Deacon Izzy, a laidback, love-laden piece made for that special someone. Just like the dance, the singers serenade their respective partners with heartwarming, adulation-filled performances that reinforce the unbreakable connection that ties them together. As the saying goes, they live it with lines like “Don’t wanna do it with nobody else/for you might trip and get beside myself/It takes two to get up and Tango.” The final track, “Thirsty,” is the perfect closer that blends modern R&B/soul with contemporary funk aesthetics. The track centers around yearning for that soulmate who makes life complete. I must add, the track is yet another catchy tune that is perfect for your love playlist. The melodies are gripping and the interpolation of Next’s “Too Close” is just perfect. A solid number for the lovers out there, if you asked us.

Other notable cuts include the synth-driven “Party” featuring Coby Williams, which lives up to its title, the funk-laden “Good To Me,” which comprises plucky licks, a prevalent bassline and uplifting themes about true love. The “Closer 2 U” featuring is a duet with MK Zulu and Lavonne and has a Barry White-inspired vibe. The string arrangement is cinematic, and the vocal narration at the start sets the tone before the melodies come into play. Both MK Zulu and Lavonne play off each other’s strengths and deliver solid performances.

Overall, One More Time is one for the books. The production is colourful, the vocal style and arrangement are tight, and the vibe is just right.