The association between guitarist Eddie Roberts of the New Mastersounds and members of the Greyboy Allstars goes back to before his groundbreaking, Meters-inspired band even existed. But listening to their debut recording, The Rare Sounds, which features keyboardist Robert Walter, bassist Chris Stillwell and drummer Zak Najor, it’s clear the four musicians were meant to play and record together as a distinct unit.

The seminal moment that led to this collaboration came in 1996 when the Greyboys made their first trip across the pond. Roberts’ organ trio, the Three Deuces, was the opening act. Kindred souls revealed, the musicians went their separate ways only to begin working together in various configurations over the years.

So, the new record harkens back to those early days. Walter’s organ percolates over the steady grooves of the rhythm section, while Roberts’ guitar pulses with his trademark clean tone and visceral lines. The production by Roberts harkens even further back to the classic soul jazz era in the 1960s.

“Pyg,” a standout track, which clocks in at just over seven minutes, is a case in point. Stillwell’s bass carves out a funky bed with Najor working overtime on his cymbals and snare, while the guitar, with just enough reverb to make it gritty, lays down an indisputably catchy melody. Walter takes a celestial solo with light, airy notes in the middle of the tune.

“Through Being Cool” kicks off with a snare roll before the walking groove of the bass line sets the mood. The tune ebbs and flows, rises and falls in tempo; Roberts adds some distorted notes. Despite the title, it’s totally cool.

The Rare Sounds have made a record that keeps you coming back with its timeless sound. Released only on vinyl and streaming, the album will fit perfectly into your collection of instrumental, guitar-driven funky soul music.