Finally, definitive proof that Karl Denson is the man.

No seriously, this guy is all soul. Between blaring saxophone solos, tintillating flute melodies, and robust vocal offerings, Denson shows us what it means to be cool on his latest studio album, New Ammo.

Denson rose through the music industry with his work accompanying Lenny Kravitz, and soon went on to become a co-founding member of The Greyboy Allstars. The multi-instrumentalist/vocalist found success, eventually leading two of his own bands: KD3 and Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe. New Ammo is the third offering from Tiny Universe, the first since 2009, and the first to be released through Stoopid Records, the label founded by Slightly Stoopid (with which Denson has collaborated in the past).

New Ammo is aptly titled, as the album provides thirteen heavy-hitting dance floor jams. The LP opens with “Grenadier,” a gritty, driving riff dominated by a guitar and bass combination melody, and accentuated by triumphant saxophone and keys. The tune quickly segues into a powerful sax solo by Denson, one of those moments where the energy is just leaping off of the track. The music lures you in with its sensual grooves, raw emotion with polished musicianship.

On the third track, a cover of the Cold War Kids’ “Hang Me Out To Dry,” Denson loosens up and shows off his vocal chops. The funky tune establishes a guitar melody, before Denson delivers his lyrics. His affirming tone is matched only by his wicked saxophone soloing. It’s soul music at its finest. 

I can’t really say enough about this album. There’s a funkity-funk instrumental cover of The White Stripes’ “Seven Nation Army” smack dab in the middle of all these excellent jams, and it’s superb. New Ammo also features collaborations with Nicki Bluhm, Mike Dillon, and The Cosmic Horns, each adding a delightful piece to this whimsical puzzle. The album also includes an instrumental cover of The Beastie Boys’ “Sure Shot,” with some soothing flute work along the way.

In the words of Denson himself, “We’ve finally figured out how to capture in the studio with the Tiny Universe does live. We move around a lot musically, but this record reflects who we are as a band and where we’re headed with our music!” This may be a good opportunity to point out the exquisite work by the rest of Denson’s bandmates, who easily match Denson’s musical enthusiasm. The result is staggering.

All in all, New Ammo is a great album. It’s serious music by serious musicians, but, with a carefree attitude. I can foresee myself listening to this album many a-time. Dig it:

-David Melamed (@DMelamz)