This week, “Just Friends” by DeRobert & the Half-Truths is Casey’s DJ Pick! DeRobert & the Half-Truths are a funk and soul ensemble based in Nashville, Tennessee. With powerhouse vocalist DeRobert Adams at the helm, the band has been involved with Nashville’s music scene for over a decade. It’s this experience that allows them to continue rocking Music City’s soul and funk scenes. Since their debut in 2008, they have released four albums and a multitude of singles.
In “Just Friends”, DeRobert’s vocals are raw and lively, with a tasteful amount of force behind each word. As the song develops, he increases the force behind his delivery, to the point of shouting the lyrics. According to the band, the song details the struggles of “being in the friend zone, and describ[es] what [DeRobert] would do if he wasn’t.” The instrumental reflects this struggle through the use of dissonant chords, as well as a slow tempo. In addition, the song features frequent interjections from the brass section, which evolves into full harmonies as the song continues. Underneath the brass lies swung drums, a groovy guitar riff, and a funky bass line.
“Just Friends” was originally recorded in the spring of 2010 at Poor Man Studios. Now, nearly twelve years later, DeRobert & the Half-Truths has released the track into the world. Currently, the song is available to stream, or purchase through the band’s Bandcamp page. Otherwise, be sure to keep up with DeRobert & and the Half-Truths through their Facebook page, where they are most active. Also, feel free to check out “Just Friends” below!
Tune into 100.1 FM or lightning100.com to hear “Just Friends” by DeRobert & the Half-Truths as Casey’s DJ Pick of the Week. Be sure to let us know your thoughts! Tweet at us with #L100DJPicks and share your take on the track.
