Fitz & The Tantrums
Background: Okay, let's get the two awkward parts out of the way. One: yes, this band has no guitarist. Two: yes, HandClap by this group is available as Rock Band 4 DLC. Should these two facts completely disqualify Fitz & The Tantrums from appearing on my suggestions list? I'd argue no. Why? Two reasons. One: while HandClap is a great pop song, it should never have been released for Rock Band, especially when there are so many better songs by these guys, particularly on their first album (which I worship and you really should give a spin). Two: their bass parts are incredible. Don't believe me? I'll give you two tunes to tantalize your tastebuds earbuds ears. Dig this:
The Obvious Choice:
MoneyGrabber
Now available! Download here
Album: Pickin' Up The Pieces (2010)
I saw a live cover of this at a local arts festival and holy moly did the crowd love this. I can't blame them: it's a phenomenally fun song, especially live, and especially by the writers themselves. Fitz & The Tantrums know how to perform live... too bad most of the songs they now perform are vastly inferior to this selection. You will be jumping around.
Vocals: Really, really fun for a male and female vocalist together. A definite party pleaser!
Guitar: None. Horns could go here, though.
Bass: Oh my goodness what a tastey jam...
Drums: I feel like they're awesome. But it might just be the song itself.
Keys: Piano.
Miscellaneous: Fades out, like the original sound the band had...
Runner-up:
Breakin' the Chains of Love
Album: Pickin' Up The Pieces (2010)
To be honest, all subsequent albums released after their first are packed full of pop music, and while I enjoy those songs for what they are, I really miss their earlier, more organic sound. Because of that, I picked another song from their debut. I'm hoping some day they'll return to form and make more music like this... but I'm not hopeful. Success has changed them. But don't frown . Instead, smile
as you enjoy what they were...
Vocals: Some nice, thick layers. Lead male vocals with prominent female backing vocals and harmonies.
Guitar: None, but like above, horns could go here.
Bass: Putting the fun in funky. Yowza.
Drums: I hope they're fun, because they sound fun.
Keys: Yup.
Miscellaneous: I know it's cheating, but I wish "Make you god damn pay!" were charted like a talkie so I could scream it. I'll just do it anyway and break combo, no biggie. Oh, and it fades out. Sorry.