Stargazer Music Magazine review of “Live Love”, by Ian Davies

Formed in 2001, Phoenix-based Funk and Soul sensations Calumet (Calumetbandaz) embody the quintessential elements of today’s music industry. Renowned for their dynamic presence in Arizona, they have shared stages with legends such as Kool & the Gang, Al Green, and George Benson. The band's impressive lineup includes Eric Mobley - vocals/keyboards/guitar, Kendall Davis and Michelle Worley - vocals, Larry Brodie - saxophone, David Moore - saxophone/flute, Jason Mitchell - bass/guitar/vocals, and Julian Mitchell on drums/vocals.

Their latest single, "Live Love," featured below, draws inspiration from the iconic sounds of Sly Stone and Jimi Hendrix. This track encourages listeners to question long-held beliefs about family, religion, and politics, advocating for personal freedom and independent thought. 

In a recent interview with guitarist Jason Mitchell, I asked him to tell me more about the single, he told me;

“The track is about hypocrisy, and generally, the huge number of people who claim to be one thing, while acting in the opposite way. I would include so-called patriots who commit treason, religious people who preach love, but practice intolerance, and citizens who want to stop immigration in a country that was founded on it. Most of this behaviour is the result of manipulation by corrupt leaders of all sorts, and the media."

The accompanying video, also found below, is shot at Jason's home, and features a skeleton as the narrator, adding a profound visual metaphor to the song's message. This skeletal figure, representing the universal fear of death, guides viewers through a series of evocative scenes that challenge their perceptions of life and mortality.

And that brings me nicely to the single in question here – 

“Live Love.”

This track is a soulful exploration of self-awareness and authenticity. With lyrics questioning the cost of pain and the value of truth, the song challenges listeners to "Live Love" genuinely. The repeated refrain drives home the message of living with intention and sincerity. In all, the melody, paired with thought-provoking lyrics create a powerful anthem that encourages breaking free from societal constraints, and embracing true love and individuality.

To close, this single won’t gather dust in any collection, and will keep heads bouncing and feet tapping from sofa to stage. So why not clear a space, and give Calumet a try for 2024.

Ian Davies International Music Journalist – Stargazer Music Magazine.

Star Rating – 10/10