There’s a kind of magic that happens when musicians stop chasing perfection and start chasing feel. In “Harmonic Soul: Live From Rehearsal,” Greg Owens & Harmonic Soul Band invite us into that sacred, unfiltered space—where rhythm breathes, mistakes turn into moments, and groove becomes a collective language. From Columbus, Ohio, Greg Owens is no stranger to the stage or studio. A multi-faceted artist, producer, and drummer, he’s built a name for his versatility, shifting seamlessly between the worlds of funk, soul, and hip-hop. As a long-time drummer for the Ohio funk mainstay MojoFlo, Owens has spent years refining his craft, learning not only how to keep the beat but also how to elevate it. With Harmonic Soul Band, he’s crafted something communal: a musical collective built around authenticity, groove, and spiritual upliftment. And now with their album, each song unfolds like a story being told in the moment. Let’s dig into it.
The album opens with “Everlasting Summer,” a lush, sun-drenched groove that sets the mood right away. Funk-laced bass lines and silky electric keys wash over a steady drum pocket as the band’s harmonies evoke freedom and gratitude. Owens’ rhythmic command anchors the song, while the vocals exude smooth confidence—a perfect lyric to endless warmth and optimism. It feels like cruising through life’s golden hour, with the band serving as the soundtrack to better days.
“Wake Up” hits with purpose and drive. Funk meets consciousness here, with the band channeling the energy of classic soul protest songs but in a modern, hip-hop-infused context. The rhythmic interplay between drums and bass feels urgent and tight, while the vocals carry a motivational grit. This song is a call to awareness, self-love, and collective empowerment. It’s both a groove and a message.
The artfully titled “Vacation” slides into a laid-back rhythm, bursting with breezy keys, soft guitar licks, and vocals that invite you to take a mental escape. Owen’s drumming here is tasteful, fluid, light, and conversational, allowing the instrumentation to breathe. The song’s mood is escapist but never detached; it’s a soulful reminder that sometimes self-care is a revolutionary act.
“Things To Do” balances introspection with hustle. The song flows with a mid-tempo funk rhythm, accented by playful syncopation and crisp horn punches. Vocally, the delivery is conversational and witty, reflecting on life’s constant to-do list while reminding us to find rhythm in the chaos. The band’s chemistry shines—every instrument responds intuitively to the other, echoing the unspoken language of seasoned musicians.
“Come Fly With Me” takes us to higher ground, both musically and emotionally. A soaring melody, lush harmonies, and fluid guitar runs blend seamlessly into an atmosphere of dreamlike serenity. The vocal phrasing feels tender yet confident, creating a sense of upliftment. The production mirrors that sentiment: open, layered, and expansive, giving the track a cinematic flair.
A love letter to Owens’ home state and its rich musical legacy, “True Ohio Player” nods to the funk pioneers who paved the way. The track struts with thick bass lines, swaggering guitar riffs, and that unmistakable Midwest funk grit. It’s confident, infectious, and proudly rooted in Ohio soul. Owens and his band wear their influences boldly but refresh them with youthful vitality.
“What U Want” shifts gears into something slick and sensual—smooth R&B undertones over a tight, minimal groove. The vocals are buttery, the rhythm effortless, and the delivery intimate. It showcases the band’s versatility and their ability to transition from fiery funk to sultry soul without missing a beat. The production here is refined, capturing the live warmth while keeping every instrument unique.
Closing the album is the “Harmonic Soul Medley,” a powerful culmination of everything Greg Owens & Harmonic Soul Band represent. It weaves themes from earlier tracks into a free-flowing jam session that feels like a celebration of community, talent, and gratitude. You can almost hear the smiles and spontaneous improvisations as the music builds to a euphoric finish—a true testament to the synergy between Owens and his ensemble.
While “Harmonic Soul: Live From Rehearsal” thrives on its live spontaneity, the production is far from rough. Each track feels warm, balanced, and intentional. Owen’s background as a producer shines through in how every element sits perfectly in the mix. There’s a tactile quality to the sound; I could feel the air moving through the room, the real-time energy of musicians lost in their craft.
Ultimately, this project is a testament to Greg Owens’ vision of music as community. “Harmonic Soul: Live From Rehearsal” captures not just songs but a spirit that celebrates connection, resilience, and joy through the universal language of groove. If you seek authenticity, musicianship, and meaning, Greg Owens & Harmonic Soul Band are a revelation. This is Ohio soul, alive and evolving, a reminder that the best music isn’t just performed; it’s lived.
Listen to “Harmonic Soul: Live From Rehearsal” on Spotify
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