Bells Atlas’ Fearless Single Pulls from a Kaleidoscope of Rhythm & Blues [Stream]

Cali-based Bells Atlas’ soulful, psychedelic vibes have been hailed as “the future sound of Oakland” but could easily arrive as the flagship for any burgeoning music scene. With a voice that recalls both the tender obtuseness of Little Dragon’s Yukimi Nagano and the sultry sass of Erykah Badu, lead singer Sandra Lawson-Ndu provides the slinky thread that weaves the bands world-influenced, indie electro sound into a cohesive whole. It is a wonder to behold as the chorus reaches a crescendo with series of dissident repetitions and strangely beautiful changes. “NCAT” is a standalone single release that comes timed with the Bells Atlas’ upcoming tour, serving as the house band for WNYC/NPR program Snap Judgment.