In a year that’s been plagued with an appalling level of violence across the world and a tense, often inflammatory dialogue between the United States’ presidential nominees, any demonstration of our capacity for good is much appreciated. Therefore, GRiZ‘s fourth studio album comes at a perfect time – we could all use a reminder that Good Will Prevail.
After having the pleasure of briefly meeting GRiZ this summer, I found that like its’ creator, Good Will Prevail is endearingly optimistic. One thing stands out on the initial listen is the number of collaborations on the album; 12 of the 13 tracks feature friends such as Big Gigantic or Prob Cause, fittingly guesting on “My Friends and I”. That spirit of camaraderie impacts the work, allowing GRiZ to explore new musical territory that additionally plays to the strengths of artists such as Cory Enemy or Muzzy Bear, producing a number of different genre experiences that somehow cohesively fit together on the album. GRiZ is most brilliant when he’s showcasing his own skills though; Parliament Funkadelic and Lenny Kravitz-sounding influences appear in “Can’t Hold Me Down”, featuring raw electric guitars and a blazing sax solo from the producer. “Feelin’ Fine”, the album’s only solo cut, is soulful and psychedelic, with 70s-funk horns and warped bass shining like a distorted disco ball.
Clipping along at just under an hour, the album’s strongest cuts can be found on both the front and back end. Perhaps the most notable track on the second half of Good Will Prevail is with fellow horn players Brasstracks, the brains behind Chance The Rapper‘s summer smash “No Problems”. Graceful and celebratory, the anthemic “Gotta Push On” is infectiously catchy – a shot of pure happiness. Closing out the record is “Driftin'”, a smoky, Motown-esque ballad that gives GRiZ’s live instrumentation room to really expand to its’ full capacity. Swooningly romantic, Son Little‘s hazy vocals convey a sense of innocence over the rich horns and slow-dance-worthy drums in a track that truly feels of a different era. “Driftin'” is the perfect way to end this sonic journey – it expresses the message of the album’s title in its simplicity and sweetness. In a world filled with noise and anger and upset, sometimes it’s nice to stop and appreciate the little things in life: love, friendship, and music.
You can purchase Good Will Prevail on iTunes now, and grab tickets for the eponymous fall tour here.
Saint Audio 