'Groovelution' is a big step forward for dr jones. After the success of 'Sugar' there were high levels of expectation from fans and critics alike but these were largely ignored by the band who, in their usual style, put their heads down, took their time, and made something bigger and better. The album has not been produced with any target audience in mind and there has been no focus group or test audience who have passed comment at any stage. The band have honed their skills, laid down the grooves and made the kind of music that makes them tick. In doing this they have produced what can only be thought of as the genuine article. It's not a rehash of a tried and tested genre or an attempt to sound like anyone except themselves and in doing so they have produced something special. The great funk grooves, soaring melodies, awesome solos that helped establish the band's reputation are all still there but there is a greater confidence and brio to this album that clearly demonstrates the band's depths that were only hinted at on previous recordings. Any evidence? Well, take the first three tracks as a case in point. Compromise, with it's almost reckless feel, sounds different from anything the band have produced in the past. It is unashamedly raw and gloriously passionate in a way you feel the band wouldn't have previously dared to be. Similarly track 2, Groove solution, has a funk groove and raunchy vocal that brims with an almost tangible confidence. Cold has a scope and depth that demands repeated listening(and a sub-woofer) to pick up all the instrumental treats that your ear can't get on a casual listen.

Sugar