Gina Sobel and her band create chemistry with new urban folk EP, Redbud.

By Graeme Smith

New to these pages, Gina has just come to our attention through the release of her EP, Redbud – a collection that might never have existed.

Originally, Gina pulled together an ensemble of artists to play just a single track, Try Again Tomorrow. Those artists were Brandon Lane, Joey Antico, Ian Dansey, and DJ Harrison (who also produced). Once they were in the studio, the bug took hold, and they booked more sessions to play more songs until they had an EP.

It’s is a collection that gets off to a laidback start thanks to EP opener and title track Redbud. A sultry, brassy intro gives way to a verse in which Gina’s dreamy vocal shines. At the track’s midway point, things begin to build before we reaching a cathartic finish. It’s a strong start.

Genre-wise it’s folk, but not necessarily for the rural. Instead, Gina writes music for the people of the suburbs and the cities as well. Florida Ave welcomes us to the city with its metropolitan style and timeless groove. We get elements of jazz, funk and hip hop across all the EP’s six tracks.

The aforementioned Try Again Tomorrow is a highlight thanks to its wistful instrumental and catchy groove. East Colorado slows things down for a simmering moment before Canyons provides some lingering funk. The in Between closes the EP with a bright and groovy number that will stick with you.

Chemistry is an often overlooked but incredibly important aspect of what makes music great. We get that in abundance with this EP. The musicians all work together beautifully to make an inviting sonic tapestry. It’s clear to see why they recording. Let’s hope there’s more to come.

Redbud is out now and you can give it a listen below.