The genres of pop, r & b, and hip hop are propelled to new heights on the latest release from Brooklyn music visionaries, Cool Company. The talented duo consisting of vocalist, Cool Yan (Yannick Hughes) and producer, Fat Matt (Matt Fishman), deliver six tracks of sonic heat on the “Summer Daze” EP that will keep temperatures rising on the dancefloor.
“Sunrise” sets off the proceedings with a mellow, laid back vibe powered by lush melodies and Yan’s smooth falsetto. “We High, You Low” is the motto of the moment as the group transport us to musical nirvana. It’s the beginning of a voyage into aural ecstasy that continues with “Simple Things,” a magical track that conjures images of a tropical island paradise. ‘Life is simple.’ At least it feels that way when you listen to this beautifully arranged tune. “Beneath The Lights” serves up some Caribbean flavor with a melodic pattern that sounds like a slightly reworked version of the theme from “Hill Street Blues.” Oddly enough, it perfectly complements Yan’s powerful vocal turn on the song. Matt Fishman is a miracle worker behind the boards!
“Overload” kicks things up a notch with a funky groove that finds Cool Yan expressing displeasure towards his day to day routine. Feelings of jealousy and anger emerge when he observes others experiencing the love he desires. Sometimes the pain can be too much but he has to persevere! This song is a brilliant example of a track that excels in content & composition while leaving us wanting more due to its brevity. “Howling” delivers an unsettling, lonely late night vibe while “Sandcastles” wraps up the project with an ethereal, otherworldly atmosphere of light-hearted celebration that showcases the creativity of two artists who will provide cool company for true music fans on those hot summer days.
– Kevin Keith
