1st TAKE AT ARES STUDIO

THE FOUNDATION OF THE GROOVE THE SOUL AND THE STANK

From the first drop of the needle, 1st take at Ares Studio isn't just an album—it's an environment. The band US has managed to capture something elusive in the modern era: a recording that breathes. There is no digital sterile shroud here. Instead, you're met with a sonic richness that feels harvested rather than programmed. The heartbeat of this record is the fat, tight pocket drums and heavy, melodic bass. It doesn't just sit in the mix; it commands it, with a bass groove moving like mercury between the speakers providing the velvet floor of foundation to the songs FATMEAT, KICKOFF and US HAS LEFT THE BUILDING. The pocket drums make every snare hit a masterclass in “the crack” its—dry, authoritative landing exactly where it needs to be, to make you lean into the rhythm of THE SONG WE LIKE TO PLAY, TAPYOFOOT, DISGO and DASHIT. As the journey progresses the “stank” is undeniable. The guitar work is minimalist in its ego maximalist in its impact. ILOVEU, HIPPY TRIP and BLUE are smooth, percussive, and drenched in a grit that feels like a hot summer sidewalk. These riffs aren't played; they're exhaled. Floating above the rhythmic flow are the soul-piercing keys. Whether it's the woody growl of a Hammond or the crystalline chime of an electric piano, the keys provide the emotional narrative. They cut through the funk with a clarity that is divine. The US sound keeps your feet moving while your heart is paying attention.

THE SONIC PHILOSOPHY

What makes this double album a landmark achievement for US is the rejection of the “over-produced.” This is organic music in its purest form.

The Texture: Raw but polished. The Vibe: A late-night studio session with world-class acoustics. The Result: A record that sounds as if it has always existed, yet feels entirely brand new.

Each song was captured in one take, this is more than a collection of 10 songs.

The 1st take at Ares Studio is a celebration of the “pocket.” It's an invitation to get lost in the space between the notes. US has delivered a masterpiece that is unapologetically funky and brilliantly clear.

Disclaimer: For best results, play on a high-quality phonograph system. Let the tubes warm up. Drop the needle and go deep in the pocket with US.APTTMH