The group’s first-ever physical release is a combination of original material coupled with a lost soul rarity, and represents both a significant change and a return to form. The group remains rooted in the traditions of classic soul, funk, and breaks, identifiable to fans of soul revival outfits like Daptone, Big Crown and Colemine Records.

The centerpiece of the new release is title track “Cruelty,” an original and supremely catchy heart-aching soul ballad with modern sensibility reminiscent of artists like Durand Jones and Leon Bridges. “All Beak” is an uptempo dancefloor mover chock full of top-level guitar / keyboard interplay and superfunk drums, iced with some “open” breaks just for DJs with doubles.

Finally, the EP includes a cover of The Magic Tones’ “There Is Nothing Better Than Love,” originally released in 1968. A rare masterpiece of crossover soul coveted by collectors worldwide, the roundabout vocals are a perfect showcase for the harmonies of the group’s vocalists. The release also includes a stripped-down instrumental version of the song, which puts the band’s rhythm section front-and-center.

Produced by Brewerytown Beats Records owner P. Maxwell Ochester, co-produced Aaron Levinson (Spanish Harlem Orchestra, The Philadelphia Experiment) and engineered by York Street Hustle bassist Brendan McGeehan.