The second single to come from musclecars’ debut LP “Sugar Honey Iced
Tea!” is a transcendent sonic masterpiece by the name of “Ha Ya!
(Eternal Life)”. This captivating broken beat, Afro-jazz composition
delves into the enigmatic realms of the afterlife, offering a
mesmerizing exploration of what lies beyond our mortal existence.
A nod to the Clark Sister’s original tune bearing the same title, “Ha
Ya! (Eternal Life)” gracefully unfolds with the captivating vocal
performance by German Jazz Award Winner, Natalie Greffel. Chanting the
same spiritual tongues of the original, the vocal arrangement seamlessly
invokes profound feelings of devotion and endurance. Paired with a
phenomenal flute solo from Underground System’s Domenica Fossati, and a
transcendent string ensemble, the track's intricate rhythms and soulful
melodies serve as a portal to a realm where the afterlife is painted in
hues of cosmic wonder.
This sonic revelation is more than a tribute to the afterlife; it's a
celebration of life's continuity beyond death. musclecars’ evocative
storytelling through sound invites audiences to ponder the echoes of
their own existence, finding solace in the idea that life persists
through the legacy of their passion, devotion, and profound connections.
Releasing as a digital single, “Ha Ya! (Eternal
Life)” serves as an enticing precursor to the forthcoming vinyl LP
release "Sugar Honey Iced Tea!" scheduled for May 2024. This Jazz
odyssey offers a glimpse into the diversity of musclecars' highly
anticipated debut album, seamlessly blending House to Techno, to Soul
and Jazz, to R&B, to Ambient, and beyond. Crafted with meticulous
artistry, the album transcends musical boundaries, providing a sonic
journey for both the dance floor and introspective contemplation. As a
harmonious convergence of the music genres that inspire them, Brandon
Weems and Craig Handfield invite listeners to explore the rich tapestry
of black experiences embedded within its musical narrative.
Shannon Harris elegantly marries the past and future. And he does it
again by remixing an already superior "Ha Ya! (Eternal Life)" by
musclecars. Just as the Clark Sisters' build the sonic majesty on the
1981 "Ha Ya" on their album Is My Living in Vain, Harris, who is a well
established musical journeyman, builds this remix in fine and
unsuspecting form. The track opens up with a straightaway to the closest
dance floor. The celebratory introduction is warm and melodic, and then
the track takes a turn toward and leads to a festive crescendo. Listen
for the joyous party and play. Feel the mesmorizing harmonies.
musclecars chose the exceedingly capable Harris, and he leaves listeners
with a fine journey for the mature ear.
Tracklist:
1. Ha Ya! (Eternal Life)
2. Ha Ya! (Eternal Life) (Shannon Harris' A Love 4 Joy Journey Mix)
3. Ha Ya! (Eternal Life) (Instrumental)