The Fundamental Sound is the Brooklyn, USA-based one-man band of Dan Klug who blends soul, funk and jazz with a Wurlitzer 200 electric piano.

By Graeme Smith

He’s come to my attention through his second album, appropriately called Seconds. Its title is a nod to the culinary world, with Dan comparing himself to a perfectionist chef when compiling his record.

The album kicks off with the funky and chilled Daydreamer. The piano takes centre stage in a composition that has a compelling groove to it. It provides jazzy licks against a bass-heavy backdrop. There’s a timelessness about it that made me want to listen to more.

FG Boogie gives us some bright nostalgia while Comfort Food warms us pleasantly. Rigby gets us up out of our seats thanks to its punchy, pacy arrangement. Matron Song slows things down for a soulful reflection. Summer Storm provides the ambience with captured audio of rain and thunder before launching into a soft, brooding number. Song for Life has a head-nodding groove and a sense of satisfaction. The Long Road Home closes the album with a tale of the next adventure ahead.

I’m not usually the biggest fan of instrumental music, but Dan gets some much expression out of his Wurlitzer and arrangements that I couldn’t help but dig his tunes. If you’re looking for a collection that feels at once retro and modern, then his new album is for you.

Seconds is out now via Room Sound Records, available to buy as a digital album on Bandcamp. You can give it a listen below.