Soul Remedy is perhaps one of the most musically interesting groups to come out of New Orleans in the last year. Where other groups seem to choke on cliches, Soul Remedy puts forth an eclectic and refreshing new sound. The groups four members are vocalist Marla Smith, drummer T. Rosemore, guitarist Jules “Iya Rah” Ford and bass player Rod “Bass Heavy” Tillman.

The debut CD by the group features eight well-executed tunes. It is certainly difficult to put a label on the group’s bohemian style, which is certainly not a bad thing, but admittedly it does make it harder for me to write this review. The influences of hip hop, reggae, soul, and jazz are clear. The group members list Jimi Hendrix, the Roots, A Tribe Called Quest, Jaco Pastorius, Santana and Miles Davis as some of their influences.

Marla Smith is obviously a wonderful singer, with enough style and flair to truly stand out in this crowded field. Her vocal stylings are perhaps most reminiscent of one of 1999’s most talked-about new artists, singer Macy Gray. The group’s songs all feature wonderful lyrics and infectious grooves. The tune “Let It Shine” has a wonderful reggae-tinged and soulful riff while “Irie Rollin’” features a slammin’ bassline. The Hendrix influence is apparent Iya Rah’s guitar stylings on “Earth Song.”

Overall, this self-titled CD provides an exciting debut by this young group. The group is slated to play at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and are finalizing plans for a major tour. I would not be at all surprised if Soul Remedy were the next group of out of New Orleans to really make it big on the national hip-hop scene.