Over the past five years, Vulfpeck has released a series of EPs via Bandcamp showcasing their funky chops. Each song was accompanied by a YouTube video, often featuring outdated video editing techniques and graphics. Fans watched band members swap instruments from song to song and band leader Jack Stratton dance like a lunatic.
With each release, the band became progressively more professional, while still keeping their same goofy demeanor, and by their final EP, "Fugue State", drummer Theo Katzman tried out his hand on vocals with “Christmas in LA”. Coming off the success of a free tour funded by the royalties on a silent album on Spotify called "Sleepify", they were ready for their first official release.
With "Thrill of the Arts", the band touches upon their past successes while reaching a new, broader audience. Old fans will recognize a medley of songs from all previous releases on the opening track “Welcome to Vulf Records” and cleaned up versions of “Rango” and “Christmas in LA” as the record progresses.
For some, the familiarity is enjoyable, while others may reject the repeats, viewing the repetition as a cop-out. However, "Thrill of the Arts" is their official debut album, and for many listeners, the first time hearing these tracks. Some will remain unswayed, but I think they earned the right for repeats.
Familiarity aside, the album truly shines on the new tracks. Unlike their past releases, "Thrill of the Arts" has several vocal-driven, single-worthy songs. In typical Vulfpeck fashion, however, none of them are serious.
Regular collaborator Antwaun Stanley, of “Wait for the Moment” fame, sings through the nonsensical scat jam, “Funky Duck” and the band channels their inner R. Kelly on “Game Winner.” Through the narration of a basketball player encouraging his teammates to pass him the ball so he can make the final point, this piano-driven ballad is reminiscent of “I Believe I Can Fly” with its slow builds and powerful vocals from Charles Jones.
Theo Katzman even retakes his place on the mic with “Back Pocket” where he reminisces about writing girls “Do you like me?” notes on the playground.
The album can be summed up by its shortest track, “Walkies.” The track begins with piano chords separated by percussive dog barks before taking off into a synth groove and a muted electronic drum solo. Here, Vulfpeck proves their talents while making their audience fall in love with their nonsensical charm. Their debut is sure to turn heads and make Vulfpeck one of the biggest names of the year.
Essential tracks: “Welcome to Vulf Records,” “Game Winner,” “Conscious Club” and “Smile Meditation”