Jerome Thomas’ That Secret Sauce

“I just wanna vibe / Is that so much to ask for?” opines Jerome Thomas on the opening verse of “No B.S.” That Secret Sauce, his all too brief debut for Rhythm Section International, easily demonstrates that it is not, showcasing the spirit of neo soul alive and well in 2021. Indeed, vibes are in steady supply over its seven tracks, nourished by the Hackney-raised singer-songwriter’s hypnotizing falsetto as his wails and whimpers reverberate over the sensual bounce of drum and bass. The production here is sparse and organic thanks to Thomas’ live 6 piece band, providing space for the grooves of highlights like the delicate “That,” luscious “Sauce” and trumpet-accentuated “Thanks, No Thanks” to marinate and intensify the romantic affair. The narrative arch presented is a familiar one, progressing from the heat of infatuation through familiarity and eventual dissolution, but the quality craftsmanship displayed adds a satisfying excitement to the retelling.

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If you like That Secret Sauce, check out:

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• Sgt Culpepper by Joel Culpepper

• Brown Sugar by D’Angelo

• “Comin’ Outta The Rain” by Salaam Remi and Bilal

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