B-Side Guys

Ivan M. Brown’s “The Soul Thing” is a musical journey that defies categorization, blending elements of Indie Pop, R’n’B, and Soul into a unique concoction that is as intriguing as it is enchanting. This five-track EP, meticulously crafted by Brown in Brooklyn, NY, over the course of two years, stands as a testament to his multifaceted artistry and his ability to infuse each song with a palpable sense of emotion and narrative depth.

From the outset, it’s clear that “The Soul Thing” is not just another addition to the myriad of music releases that seek to fit neatly within the confines of genre conventions. Instead, Brown embarks on an exploratory mission, allowing the music to guide him through unexpected twists and turns, both musically and lyrically. The result is a collection of songs that feel refreshingly authentic and personal, yet universally relatable.

The opening track, “Slow,” sets the tone for the EP with its laid-back groove and contemplative lyrics, inviting listeners to take a moment to breathe and reflect. Brown’s vocal delivery, warm and inviting, draws you into the intimate world he’s crafted, one where every note and word is imbued with meaning.

“A Girl from New Jersey” comes next, serving up a delightful twist with its ironic and playful pop sensibilities. Brown infuses the track with a rom-com flair, sketching out scenes filled with whimsy and gentle humor, placing characters in amusing, awkward predicaments. The song dances on the line between sweet and sardonic, wrapped in catchy melodies and a light-hearted arrangement that underscores its charming, bittersweet essence without veering into the overly dramatic.

The titular track, “The Soul Thing,” serves as the EP’s centerpiece, encapsulating Brown’s artistic vision. It’s here that the fusion of genres becomes most apparent, with elements of Indie Pop and Soul intertwining to create a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-looking. The song’s lyrical content, exploring themes of identity and self-expression, resonates deeply, making it a standout moment on the EP.

“Mental Health” takes an unexpected turn, not as a somber reflection on psychological well-being, but as a celebration of life’s seemingly mundane yet profoundly beautiful moments. The track, enriched by Annalise Rodgers’ expressive flugelhorn, weaves a narrative that finds grandeur in the trivial, inviting listeners to find depth in everyday experiences. Brown crafts a tapestry of modern life, infusing it with a touch of irony, where contemporary characters find themselves enveloped in a melody that harks back to a more romantic era, highlighting the charm of old-fashioned encounters in our fast-paced world.

The EP concludes with “This Is It (Stay),” a poignant ballad that serves as a fitting finale to the journey. The track encapsulates the essence of “The Soul Thing,” with its heartfelt lyrics, soul-stirring melodies, and Brown’s earnest vocal performance. It’s a reminder to savor the present moment and cherish the connections we make along the way.

Throughout “The Soul Thing,” Ivan M. Brown demonstrates a remarkable ability to blend diverse musical influences into a cohesive and compelling whole. His hands-on approach to the production process, from writing and performing to recording and mixing, imbues the EP with a sense of authenticity and personal investment that is palpable in every track.

Brown’s decision to infuse the EP with a sense of irony and self-irony adds an additional layer of complexity to the project. His ability to smile through the creative process, even as he delves into weighty themes, speaks to his resilience as an artist and his belief in the transformative power of music.

“The Soul Thing” is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a reflection of Ivan M. Brown’s artistic journey and his commitment to creating music that resonates on a deeply human level. With this EP, Brown invites listeners to join him on a ride through the landscapes of the soul, offering a glimpse into the heart of an artist who refuses to be confined by genre boundaries or conventional expectations.

In a musical landscape often dominated by formulaic productions and fleeting trends, “The Soul Thing” emerges as a beacon of originality and depth. Ivan M. Brown has crafted an EP that not only showcases his versatility as a musician and producer but also his profound understanding of the human condition. “The Soul Thing” is a reminder that music, at its best, is a mirror to our souls, offering solace, understanding, and, above all, a connection to the shared experience of being human.