Dakota Jones's New Album Takes You on a Cosmic Journey

The New York band fuses retro grooves and futuristic elements in their captivating sophomore album, "Heartbreakers Space Club."

Photo: Alexandra Johnson

Dakota Jones is back with their highly anticipated sophomore album, "Heartbreakers Space Club." This record marks a significant shift for the band, as they embrace the future while staying true to their retro-inspired roots. With slick rhythms and the ethereal vocals of Tristan Carter-Jones, Dakota Jones takes listeners on a cosmic journey that is an experience unlike anything else.

The inspiration behind "Heartbreakers Space Club" stems from a diverse range of musical influences. Drawing from iconic albums like David Bowie's Ziggy Stardust, D'Angelo's soulful discography, and the early works of Prince, Dakota Jones crafts a unique sound that effortlessly blends genres and defies expectations. It's a joyful celebration of music that resonates with listeners on a deep and authentic level.

‘Heartbreakers Space Club - doubling as both something celestial and a place that you hold for yourself, is where you lose yourself to find yourself, break yourself down to build back up into the most authentic version of you. One moment you’re sitting in a dark corner of the bar smoking a cigarette, gazing out of the window into a candy pink sky, the next moment all of the walls disappear and you’re floating in the middle of nothing, weightless and without a care. Let it take you there.’ – Tristan Carter-Jones

Opening the album is "Moon Song," a wild ride that transports listeners to space. The scuzzy guitars and spoken word outro create a mesmerizing experience. Following this is the recent single "Misbehave Me," a charismatic and sensual track that explores self-discovery and the allure of the unexpected.

Another standout on the album is the lead single, "Sugar Pie." This smooth funk-infused track exudes fun and celebrates the joy of love. The infectious groove of "Feel Something" raises the temperature even higher, with Carter-Jones' vocals soaring alongside the sultry saxophone melodies.

The influence of New York, as well as its pulsating energy, can be felt in "Dissent'N'Gin," a nod to '90s hip-hop, where Carter-Jones effortlessly combines rap and singing, creating an electrifying experience. However, one of the album's highlights is "Downtown," a retro-futuristic track that surprises listeners with both familiarity and a sense of the unexpected.The pace then picks up with "Scared," a musical journey that explores the lack of trust in a relationship, expressed through short breaths and heart palpitations.

As the album draws to a close, "Countdown" serves as a galloping end, signaling the return from space to reality. Dakota Jones leaves listeners with a reminder that the possibilities of adventure are endless.

"Heartbreakers Space Club" was produced in-house by the band's bassist and multi-instrumentalist, Scott Jet Kramp. This decision allowed them the freedom to explore and create without boundaries or preconceived notions. The collaborative process and the trust they share as a band shine through in the album's unique and boundary-pushing sound. With "Heartbreakers Space Club," Dakota Jones solidifies their position as one of the coolest funk bands that we're excited to follow.

Whether they're stomping around New York City's revered venues, touring America's coasts, or reaching even further, Dakota Jones continues to convey their unique sound wherever it leads them.

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