Ghost Funk Orchestra ‎– An Ode To Escapism LP

Ghost Funk Orchestra - An Ode to Escapism (2020)

Ghost Funk Orchestra’s An Ode to Escapism is a sonic journey that blends soul, jazz, and psychedelia into a lush, cinematic experience. Released in 2020, this album is the brainchild of multi-instrumentalist and producer Seth Applebaum, who leads the New York-based collective. The record is a deep dive into themes of longing, nostalgia, and the human desire to escape from reality, all wrapped in a rich tapestry of sound that feels both timeless and innovative.

From the opening track, An Ode to Escapism sets the stage with moody, atmospheric arrangements that transport the listener to a world where genre boundaries dissolve. The album draws heavily on the influences of 60s and 70s soul and funk, but with a modern twist that keeps it feeling fresh. Tracks like "Walk Like a Motherfucker" and "Queen Bee" showcase the group’s ability to craft grooves that are both hypnotic and complex, blending tight rhythms with swirling horns, dreamy vocals, and intricate guitar work.

What truly sets An Ode to Escapism apart is its cinematic quality. The album feels like the soundtrack to a film that exists only in the imagination, with each track contributing to a larger narrative arc. Applebaum’s production is meticulous, layering sounds in a way that creates a sense of depth and space, allowing the listener to get lost in the music. Tracks like "Little Bird" and "A Song for Paul" (a nod to Applebaum’s late grandfather, who inspired much of the album) are particularly evocative, blending melancholy with moments of hope and beauty.

An Ode to Escapism resonates deeply in a time when the desire to escape has never been more relatable. It’s an album that invites the listener to step away from the noise of the outside world and immerse themselves in a carefully crafted sonic landscape. The blend of retro influences with modern sensibilities makes it a standout in the contemporary music scene, appealing to fans of soul, jazz, psych, and beyond.

For those who appreciate music that transcends genre and takes the listener on a journey, An Ode to Escapism is a must-listen. It’s a record that lingers long after the final note, offering a rich, immersive experience that reveals new layers with each play. Ghost Funk Orchestra has crafted an album that not only pays homage to the past but also carves out its own unique space in the world of modern music.