Melbourne trio Cookin’ On 3 Burners are back with their sixth studio album,Blind Bet. A refreshing collection of soul and funk tunes, this album also has a strong cinematic vibe, which diversifies their sound and adds texture throughout.
The band, led by guitarist Lance Ferguson of The Bamboos, has collaborated with a number of guest artists this time around. Bamboos singer Kylie Auldist showcases her soulful vocals on ‘Chew You Up’ and ‘Mind Made Up’, while the album’s first single, the groovy ‘Losin’ Streak’ (featuring Daniel Merriweather) is a standout. And let’s not forget Tex Perkins, whose vocals make the bluesy ‘Flat On My Back’ a favourite.
Blind Bet includes five instrumental cuts, the best of which are the title track and ‘The Spanish Job’ – both of them would be well placed on a film soundtrack. Ross Irwin’s brilliant string and horn arrangements create this welcome cinematic feel.
It’s been five years between albums for, and Blind Bet is well worth the wait. A catchy record that will leave you groovin’ from start to finish.
4/5.
Blind Betis out now through Independent / Rocket.
