It’s rent day, but Paulo and the Problems just dropped something richer. Their most recent single, First of the month dropped May 1 and is the preamble of their upcoming album Stupid Sexy Paulo with smooth defiance. It’s the sort of track that sneaks in with a grin and walks out with your attention, not a loose melange of blue-eyed soul, head-nodding hip-hop and R&B grit, but one solid repeatable statement.
Constructed on sharp percussion, buttery basslines and a vocal performance that shifts between molasses like falsetto and smart rhyme schemes, First of the Month screams Payday Festivity amidst the struggle of the working class. There’s funk here – but it’s tight, on-target. The groove doesn’t have to impress; it’s too busy moving. And though the polish of a professional production team pervades every minute of the track, and never feels overworked. Paulo’s vocals glide, stretch, and snap driven by the purpose—half charm, half candor.
Operating from Raleigh (North Carolina), Paulo and the Problems have a band name that’s not only tongue-in-cheek, but their craft is no laughing matter. First of the Month enter their new epoch with a wink and a wink – they know they’ve got something. The combination of modern soul and hip-hop tempo is natural and there is enough old R&B phrasing to feel right without stepping into nostalgia. It’s a danceable tune, no question, but it’s also a hummable ride that’s good for a rough start to a Monday morning.
With Stupid Sexy Paulo on the horizon, this single sets up a project that should be able to find both groove and grit whilst combining daunting instincts. If this is where the month is headed, the rest of the calendar is looking fine.
“First of the Month” by Paulo and the Problems,Saynave was carefully curated for your audio enjoyment. We encourage you to leave a comment below letting us know what you think as well!
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