‘Dancing Dimensions’ heralds the seasoned professionalism of its lead singer and the smooth, musical aptitude of its contributors. Unlike much in the current soul resurgence, as declared by the unnervingly mathematical Silk Sonic record, Ural Thomas & The Pain are led by an original of the era—there is no need for close listening to spot ‘influences’. It makes the album an easy listen, as it should be. To assess this album in the matter of innovation would be like assessing a lightbulb in terms of how much heat it gives. ‘Dancing Dimensions’ comes and goes, offering classically uplifting soul and snappy grooves.
22/30
A favourite: ‘Ol Safiya’
‘Dancing Dimensions’ is out now via Bella Union.
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