It’s a Thursday. Hump Day is in the rearview mirror, but we still have miles to go until we reach Friday. You could certainly use a chill pick-me-up while you slog through your morning commute and my offering fits the bill for just that kind of Traffic Jam tunage.

“Black Moon Rising” and the entirety of Black Pumas’ self-titled album is a mood anyone can fall into. It’s a vibe that brings you peace while influencing a level of coolness to your day’s attitude. What I love most is the notable Motown influence – even friends and family I’ve shared this little delicious record of gold with thought I had put on an oldie when I pressed play. That’s the magic... because it’s not the case.

That bluesy-soul-Motown… that’s music you feel in your bones and truly soothes the soul. As of late, and have made several appearances on my playlists to represent those soulful sounds. But a new order has arrived, and Black Pumas takes the top spot.

Honestly, I would coin the Black Pumas as the most underrated band of 2021. Their hit, “Colors,” made several appearances on commercials as of late. And this album has been out since 2019! Where have we all been and why haven’t we been listening?

It doesn’t matter today though. Because we’re all listening today. And not only does it make for perfect driving music. It’s great music to live to. It’s just that good.