Jonny Tobin – Steppin’ Out (LP)

Canadian artist Jonny Tobins new modern funk album Steppin Out on Austin Boogie Crew Records shines with its catchy songwriting, stellar production and synth wizardry. It kicks off with a banger of a title track featuring Daniel David of renowned group The Pendletons. This bouncy jam captures the elation of reemerging into the world after the 2020 lockdown to reconnect and dance with our loved ones.

California underground legend XL Middleton jumps on Change It Up to drop slick raps over a shimmering Tobin beat. XL expresses how the funk gave me somethin to believe in as a sensitive soul growing up in hectic L.A. The lush bridge, virtuosic solo and epic breakdown make this tune extra fresh. Tobin links with Austin, TX group The Vapor Caves on the uptempo yet sultry Give And Take. Sweet vocals, rich harmonies and talkbox adlibs buoyantly float over the tracks verses until the energy swells for a jubilant chorus. On Rock Me, one of two instrumentals on the LP, Tobins grandiose chords and guest Marlon Petronios guitar solo make this number apt for an 80s action film soundtrack.

The records second half kicks off with the addictive Never Too Late featuring fellow Canadian and vocal powerhouse Maya Killtron. The beautiful strings, transcendent bridge and twinkly keys lend disco-roller-rink vibes to this winner cut. Bay area crooner Rojai pines for a lover on the bumpin cruiser Drive Me Wild, bolstered by a soaring 90s R&B influenced bridge. Tobin dips into his video game bag and belts out some amazing synth solos on instrumental head-nodder Boombox. Soulful dancer Time Flies with Mexico City duo Shiro Schwarz brings the album to its conclusion. Written with a grounded post-pandemic perspective, the sweet lyrics highlight the importance of appreciating ourselves and our loved ones as the precious years go by.