Theo Katzman Appreciation

On October 7th, Theo Katzman, the multi-instrumentalist from the rising funk group Vulfpeck, released a new single from his upcoming solo album ‘Heartbreak Hits.’ The single, 'Hard Work,’ shows that Katzman will take his new album in a direction different from the sound established on Vulfpeck’s records. Instrumentally, the song is driven mainly by crunchy rhythm guitar hits and a steady drum groove. The song has a sense of instrumental simplicity, sharply contrasting his work with Vulfpeck. As a result, the song delves more into an alternative sound than the 'funk jam band’ sound of Vulfpeck. Despite this change, Katzman is still able to keep the groove with his syncopated guitar and a nice hand percussion part in the background. The sense of simplicity comes from the fact that there are just less instruments featured and more song time in the verse driven exclusively by the drum groove.

This change allows Katzman to highlight his vocals. Although he was able to showcase his voice on Vulfpeck’s most recent album in the song 'Back Pocket,’ most of Vulfpeck’s catalog features instrumental jams or songs with guest vocalists. Based on this initial taste of Katzman’s solo album, it seems that he is focused on establishing himself as a singer. And so far, he has done a great job!'Hard work’ features lyrics and a vocal delivery that will have the listener singing or humming along half way through the first listen. In the second verse, vocal harmonies and a lead guitar part matched to the vocal melody continue to build the sound of the song as it progresses. As the song continues, Katzman continues to showcases his vocal chops and his impressive ability to play lead guitar parts compimentary to his vocals.

Overall, I am very intrigued by Katzman’s new single and the promise it shows for his upcoming album, set for a winter release. I am looking forward to seeing how his solo work diverges from the Vulfpeck sound while at the same time seeing what elements of Vulfpeck make their way into his own songs. Click the link in the title to listen to the song! Keep it up Theo!

Theo Katzman - As The Romans Do 

Theo Katzman Pop Song 

Theo Katzman -New Song- Sad Love Song 

Theo Katzman -New Song- My 1 Bedroom 

So please, buy it! If you need help finding links, I will be glad to let you know where you can get them!

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