Khruangbin – A LA SALA

Listening to Khruangbin turns any grey day into a tropical haven, and A LA SALA is another stellar addition to their blissful repertoire

Album Review by Jamie Wilde | 05 Apr 2024
  • Khruangbin – A LA SALA
Album title: A LA SALA
Artist: Khruangbin
Label: Dead Oceans / Night Time Stories
Release date: 5 Apr

Listening to Khruangbin turns any grey day into a tropical haven. With their inimitable fusion of psych-funk fit for a Tarantino movie, a stroll soundtracked by the Texan three-piece is a must. Grass looks greener, cherry blossom blooms brighter and you can’t help but smile as lush guitars, silky bass grooves and unwavering drums vanquish any weight from your shoulders.

A LA SALA scales back on some of the bigger sounds heard on Khruangbin’s previous album Mordechai in favour of a less is more approach. Key highlights include the Latin-infused Pon Pón and delectably bassy A Love International, each showcasing Mark Speer’s succulent guitar melodies, Laura Lee Ochoa’s glistening vocals and her effortlessly cool basslines that float with Donald Johnson’s delicate drums.

The album’s flow is impeccable, blending dreamy moments to dancefloor ready delights seamlessly. Les Petits Gris is the only exception, capturing a heavy, post-party afterhours scene with tender keys contrasted by distant birdsong and chirping cicadas. It not only beckons the new day ahead, but new sonic paths for the band as well.

Sunshine in music form, A LA SALA is another stellar addition to Khruangbin’s blissful repertoire.

Listen to: Pon Pón, A Love International

http://khruangbin.com