Black Cherry Crush

Cherry Pop

Self Released

Going into Black Cherry Crush, I had little idea of what to expect. The only two things I did know was the CD cover was all kinds of hot and the band were from Seattle. And despite popular belief from regular readers/friends, it does take more than the city of Seattle to make me warm up to a band.

Fronted by the powerful and versatile vocalist Fysah Thomas, along with Harry Wirth (bass), Jakael Tristram (guitar), Alex Chadsey (synths), and Geroge Argon (drums), the quintet calls their sound nu-disco with soul and pop interwoven, which is true, but there is so much more going on. Black Cherry Crush also have funk, jazz, blues and rock elements mysteriously sprinkled throughout their songs.

Black Cherry Crush cites influences raning from the SOS Band to the Eurythmics, Noisetts and even the man himself – Prince. These are very accurate comparrisons as you listen to their 7-song debut Cherry Pop.

The album kicks off with the aptly titled “Good Energy,” which I am sure makes a good live show opener with its upbeat tempo and guitar leads. “Just 4 Tonight” and “Just Push Play” are two sexy little numbers which will get your ass moving on the dance floor. “My Way 2 Crazy” is a futuaristic blast of pop goodness and the closing track, “Dancing In the Moonlight” is vintage Prince 1999-era.

Black Cherry Crush’s Cherry Pop fuses together many genres and do it quite well. This is a strong band with tight, in-the-pocket grooves and a sexy soul about them. Black Cherry Crush and their Cherry Pop album may sound like a soft drink campaign but it is only fitting because after dancing around to these songs, you will need a nice ice cold one to rehydrate.