• Guitars
  • Bass
  • Keyboard
  • Recording
  • Computer Audio
  • Live Sound
  • Drums
  • DJ
  • Accessories

zZounds

  • Gear
    • Features
    • News
    • Gear History
  • Guide
    • Guitar Workbench
    • Studio Solutions
    • Beat Connection
    • Behind The Kit
    • On The Decks
    • The Oscillator
    • Buying Guides
  • Video
    • Legends
    • Gear Demos
    • Live Streams
    • Perfect Pairings
    • Iconic Rigs
  • Interview
    • Artist Interviews
    • Meet the Makers
  • Music
    • The Musical Almanac
    • Music Features
  • Walking The Floor

Donnie Trumpet & the Social Experiment – Surf

Donnie Trumpet & The Social Experiment - Surf

The backing band of a gifted lyricist and songwriter takes the spotlight to craft a work under their own name, with a slew of big-name guest stars joining in. Have we heard this before?

In the case of Surf, an ambitious release by Donnie Trumpet & the Social Experiment, the answer is no. Unlike the reference above, this is no farewell, but in many ways, an introduction for the group best known for backing up Chance the Rapper. Now, now…sit still! This is not a new Chance record, though he makes a number of brilliant appearances here. Instead, it’s a proud showcase of Donnie Trumpet & the Social Experiment’s incredible chops and range. Take opener “Miracle,” which streams from luxurious California cool into a Chance monologue, into gorgeous Beach Boys harmonies. It’s the kickoff to the musical vacation this album represents — a departure from what you’re used to hearing.

From there, it heads full-funk ahead with a marching band groove to “Slip Slide.” A hearty laugh by none other than Busta Rhymes starts it off (I don’t have to tell you how he kills it on the track) and the whole song is pure fun. From there on out, Surf is parade of atmospheres: slow-jamming “Caretaker,” ambient trumpet pieces “Something Came to me,” and “Nothing Came to Me,” and more ensemble-powered reveling like “Sunday Candy.”

Thematically, Surf isn’t all sunny. On downtempo “Warm Enough,” viciously talented up-and-comer Noname Gypsy takes on relationship troubles on “Warm Enough.” And loving yourself despite your inherent hipness (or lack thereof) is explored in “Wanna Be Cool.” Surf also deserves credit for bringing together little-known Chicago artists like Gypsy, Joey Purp and others alongside huge figures like J. Cole and Erykah Badu and not once letting that gap sour its tasty (if not complex) blend of music. It’s a must-hear for anyone who needs a musical vacation.

Follow our Music Picks on Spotify

Jul 19, 2015Mason
Audio7 years ago Music
Mason

Editor of the zZounds Blog. Donut snob. I love to write and to play guitar, so naturally, I love writing about guitars. My favorite kind of music is the kind that sounds like Muzak but cooler, you know?

Mark Holcomb InterviewGibson's Kalamazoo Gals

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

 Latest Tweets 
  • zZounds LIVE - Interview with Mat Koehler https://t.co/i94RgLmFxA
  • .@prsguitars has expanded their SE line with coveted instruments that were only available as Core models -- until n… https://t.co/ECbonyZXuF
 Social Networks 
 About zZounds 
Since 1996, zZounds has been making it easy for musicians to get the gear they need. With our easy monthly payment plans, you can get the music gear you need today -- and split the cost into monthly installments on your existing credit card. zZounds ships from multiple warehouses across the continental United States, so we can cover most of our customers within a day or two. Our customer service team is staffed with real musicians. They don't get paid on commission -- they get paid to help you! Looking for the best prices? Don't miss our Big Deals weekly specials, Used Gear on Clearance, and The Drop for monthly promos, sales, and special offers.
 Contact Us 
Have questions or comments on our blog? Email blog@zzounds.com

zZounds Gear Experts are available seven days a week to answer any of your questions on gear, shipping, returns, and more. Give us a call and get help from a fellow musician today!
800-ZZOUNDS (800-996-8637)
2022 © zZounds Music | Cookie Settings | Privacy Policy | Do Not Sell | Copyright | Terms of Use
For great deals on gear, shop at zZounds