I first encountered The Putbacks late last year at a showcase, and since then have been patiently waiting to see what these Melbourne, Australia-based purveyors of funk have in store for music lovers. Whatever it was, I knew in my bones it would be something special. And special it is. The boys have recruited Hiatus Kaiyote’s Nai Palm for a slice of soul that will leave listeners feeling all kinds of good. The band covers “Spanish Harlem,” as made famous by Aretha Franklin, with Nai Palm’s delivery packed full of guts while maintaining her signature smooth style. The band backs her up with a warm, fast-paced vibe that hits all the right spots. The track is available on limited press 7” vinyl via Hope Street Recordings, featuring the B-side “The Worm” and bonus track “In The Dirt.” That’s one funked up package for the soul and vinyl lovers out there.
