John Beltran’s legendary Sol Set has finally returned to our speakers, gracing us with a sonic journey that stretches from the alleyways of Detroit to the breezy shores of São Paulo. Their latest offering, “Love Revolution,” is more than just a simple EP: it’s a portal into a world where grooves run deep and rhythms invite you to wander, ponder, and dance through the layers of light and shade.
For over two decades, Sol Set has been a gathering place for some of the most talented musicians around, a collaborative space where Beltran serves as the common thread and guiding force. Their sound (an intoxicating mix of Brazilian funk, soul, and modern-day disco with an undeniable Detroit heartbeat) is both timeless and refreshing. The journey began with a spark on Earth Volume 4 back in 2000, reemerging in 2022 with the lush “Ola de Novo,” and now continues to expand with “Love Revolution.”
The record opens with the stunning “Through Fire,” a seaside reverie that flows effortlessly into rhythmic keys and Taylor Taylor’s captivating vocals, elevated further by Walter White’s shimmering trumpet lines. “War of the Hearts” follows, reimagining Sade’s classic with guitar-driven warmth and heartfelt vocal interplay between Taylor and Beltran.
The title track, featuring South African house maestro Earl Green, delivers an irresistible call to the dancefloor, where modern soul and disco vibes swirl with socially conscious lyricism. Then comes “Maragogi,” a sun-soaked, Brazilian-tinged gem where Gabriel Oliveira’s voice drifts alongside hypnotic rhythms, creating a space that feels both intimate and expansive.
Out today, “Love Revolution” is an invitation to lose yourself in rich textures and stories, where every note and phrase feels like a sunbeam or a moonlit whisper. Find a sunny spot, press play, and let it carry you.
“Love Revolution” will be available both on streaming platforms and vinyl. Find it here!
Ben Lepper is a music producer and journalist from Boston, Massachusetts.
