Words by Harry McAuley

Fresh off a tour with Troyboi and Crywolf, Mitch Conwell, better known as FATHERDUDE, is back at it with his rework of Childish Gambino’s Redbone. With Redbone the Harlem-based singer/producer has taken a step away from the high octane club dance tunes that earned his 2016 The Balance EP widespread acclaim, stripping back his production to create a neo-soul track worthy of the original.

Listing Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder and George Clinton & Parliament Funkadelic as some of his influences, Redbone is a natural fit for FATHERDUDE. ‘When I heard  Redbone, it brought me back to part of my musical roots. I’m happy that this wavelength still resonates with people – it should. It’s soul.’

Redbone is a well-crafted track; Conwell’s vocals ooze the soul and RnB that has characterised much of New York’s music since the 1960’s. Intermittent gospel harmonies hark back to the traditions of his illustrious list of influences. His arrangement is similar to Gambino’s; a blend of analogue and digital, the melodic hook amplified by a punchy, funky bass line. The most exciting point of difference between the two is the tempo; Gambino’s version is a slow burner well suited to late night bedroom antics while Conwell’s rework is much faster, making it suitable for lounge room listening or grinding on the dance floor.

Listen below, and tell us what you make of it.