Fat Produce’s sophomore LP, Soulful Days, is a vibrant celebration of soul-jazz and funk, steeped in both reverence for its influences and the fresh energy of a modern instrumental trio. Coming on the heels of their delightful 2024 album debut, ‘Fresh Squeeze’, the band has continued to hone their craft. 

Recorded live to 8-tracks, Soulful Days captures an authentic, organic sound that feels intimate yet powerful. Guitarist Addison Rifkind, drummer Michael Duffy, and acoustic bassist Nestor Del Prado demonstrate remarkable chemistry, blending groove-driven rhythms with melodic finesse.

Highlights include the faithful yet spirited take on Boogaloo Joe Jones’ “No Way,” the funky reinterpretation of The Gaturs’ “Gator Bait,” and the inventive mash-up “90% of Me Is You/Bam Bam,” which seamlessly bridges soul and reggae rhythms. Rifkind’s guitar work shines on Isaac Hayes’ “Hung Up On My Baby,” while Duffy’s dynamic drumming anchors the playful adaptation of Toots’ “54-46 Was My Number.” 

The album’s standout moment, a reimagining of Melvin Sparks’ “Texas Twister,” perfectly encapsulates Fat Produce’s mission: to honor soul-jazz and acid-jazz roots while injecting the fiery energy of a guitar trio. Soulful Days is not only a tribute to legends but a statement of the band’s rising voice in the contemporary jazz scene—an album that invites repeated listens and rewards each one.

Soulful Days is out now and available through most major retailers and at https://fatproduce.bandcamp.com/album/soulful-days.