Multi-instrumentalist Pete Josef has a rare musical versatility that his put him in the room with a diverse group of musicians and allowed him to play in different genres. Those influences are often reflected in his own solo work, which dabbles in elements of jazz, West African music, dance, electronic, soul and a host of others. Josef now prepares for the release of his second EP, I Rise With The Birds. He's introducing the project in a big way with lead single "Giants," and SoulBounce has your exclusive first listen before the single's official release.
From the moment you press play, the song already promises something different than the norm. Pete sings a cappella at first, with the other musical elements — an Afrobeat-like guitar riff, '60s soul horns, strings, syncopated drums — layering in after and eventually building to a towering groove that swings and sways. Pete then makes a powerful statement with the song's refrain. "Some of us have to move / Before we all can stand tall / Standing on the shoulders of the giants that have come before," he sings along with the song's featured guest Marie Lister. "Some of you have to move / Before we all can get talking / Hit the ground and change the minds." The artist further explains what he's hinting at, saying, "The song tells a story, a story of anger at the lack of sense and direction in our time. Where are the giants of our age? And when will they wield the power that makes the difference? By that time, will it be too late?" These are valid questions, especially in a time that is seeing so much push for radical change when it comes to systems of inequality.
You can get your exclusive first listen of "Giants" below, pre-order it or buy the single when it's released on Friday (June 19th). To keep up with Pete Josef (and maybe find out when he'll be releasing I Rise With The Birds) we'd suggest following him on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
