Stas_For_Hire
Stas For Hire is the solo bandcamp project from Stas Thee Boss-- one half of the Subpop-signed duo, THEESatisfaction. I can't say that I've ever had the chance to listen to alien funk, but I've listened to Stas For Hire which is a deserving second-best. Part funk, soul, jazz and entirely different, Seattle's favorite space-age feminist and Shabazz Palaces affiliate approaches her wide range of influences with a healthy sense of hip-hop sensibilities.
But what's truly surprising is how deeply each influence is explored and never at the expense of another. Tracks like "Plant Based Diet" lay down infectious beats that blend perfectly with samples of soul harmonies and throw-back brass to create something that sounds both like an homage and a prediction of what's to come. Her sound seamlessly sways between daring, unorthodox beats and comfortable, nostalgic samples that makes listening both accessible and challenging. Each track is a reminder not to forget the past that Stas Thee Boss so proudly wears on her sleeve and a vision of how she can push the boundaries of those same influences.
From performing in Okayplayer's SXSW showcase to dropping her group's debut album awE naturalE, Stas Thee Boss has been busy lately which makes the release of her bandcamp project all the more incredible. So do yourself a favor and go grab a copy; from the first beat, you won't regret it.
