Every so often there comes a record that just does it in a way that very few records do – an instant classic, if you will – and The Flying Hats’ The Blender on ATA Records is one such – though the stylistically similar B-side Hot Cakes is no slouch either. Originally intended as the lead single for last summer’s Aggrovators-meets-NOLA-funk melting pot of the band’s debut The Return of The Flying Hats LP, the 45 was criminally held-up at the pressing plant until the pressing of the album itself was all but completed. Which put that carefully orchestrated promotional plan in – well – the blender. What to do? In the event, it was decided that a lucky few who bought the long player on wax format on Bandcamp would get a bonus copy of the single on 7” while the bulk would be held back for a future release date. Which brings us to the present, for that date is now – finally – here. You lucky, lucky people! They should probably get someone they know well to write about that…
(PRESS RELEASE) Is this the funkiest early reggae track ever or the most Studio One-sounding funky soul track ever? Hell, it’s both! It’s got more dancefloor bounce to the ounce than a kangaroo on a pogo-stick! On a trampoline! It’s your perfect bridge between your funk sets and your reggae sets – not to mention vice versa. It’s like Jackie Mittoo got inspired by the Hammond topline on the Mohawks’ Beat Me Til I’m Blue and then teamed-up with The Meters! In short, it’s no exaggeration to say that The Blender by ATA Records outfit The Flying Hats is not only your new favourite track but all set to be a classic that never leaves the box.
(Out now on ATA Records)