Bonneville Soars on 'Flying Machine': A Soulful Odyssey Honouring the Past While Charting the Future

Southern retro soul band Bonneville unleashes their highly anticipated second album, ‘Flying Machine'. This collection of nine original tracks solidifies Bonneville's reputation for their unique blend of retro-soul, funky R&B, and a palpable passion for preserving the musical legacy of the 70s era. Having already garnered significant attention with features on over 400 Spotify playlists and premieres by top international press, 'Flying Machine' is poised to be their definitive statement.

'Flying Machine' is far more than just an album; it's a soulful journey through retro grooves, Southern roots, and modern textures. The band masterfully blends the warmth of 70s soul, funk, and R&B with sophisticated touches of post-disco, acid jazz, and electronic funk. Influences like Jamiroquai are evident as they boldly push their sound into exhilarating new territories. While some tracks echo the smooth, laid-back grooves of legends like Curtis Mayfield and Bobby Womack, others lean into a more Southern rock nostalgia, evoking the free spirit of Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers. Bonneville isn’t afraid to experiment, seamlessly blending live instrumentation with layered production to create music that feels both timeless and remarkably fresh.

The album is enriched by stellar guest appearances that add even more depth to its already rich sonic tapestry. Members of the legendary Muscle Shoals FAME Gang, harmonica icon Mickey Raphael (Willie Nelson), and guitarist Will McFarlane (Bonnie Raitt) contribute, ensuring the album honours the past while confidently carving out its own space in the present. Recorded at the hallowed FAME Studios in Muscle Shoals, AL, the album benefits from an authentic, organic feel that permeates every note.

'Flying Machine' is a masterclass in musical craftsmanship and heartfelt expression. Produced by Starita and engineered by Wes Sheffield, the album is a cohesive and compelling listen from start to finish. Bonneville has not only preserved the legacy of classic soul grooves but has reinvigorated them with a fresh perspective and an undeniable, contemporary energy. For anyone looking to immerse themselves in rich, authentic Southern retro soul that pushes boundaries, ‘Flying Machine’ is an essential listen.