Love Experiment

Biography

The Love Experiment is a genre-blurring, future-soul collective formed in Boston in 2010 and now based in New York City. The group was initially assembled by drummer Charles “Blvk Samurai” Burchell, with core members Kim Mayo (lead vocals), Parker McAllister (bass), Andrew Burglass (guitar), Jessi Lee (saxophone), Devon Dixon Jr. (keys), and Syl DuBenion (vocals/saxophone). The band members met while attending prestigious institutions such as the New England Conservatory, Berklee College of Music, and Harvard University, coming together first for a Black History Month concert at Harvard. Their first unofficial show, however, was a warehouse party where the energy and audience response convinced them to become a permanent group.

The Love Experiment’s music is a vibrant fusion of hip-hop, jazz, R&B, soul, and funk, reflecting influences from artists like J Dilla, Flying Lotus, Erykah Badu, Radiohead, Doobie Powell, and Robert Glasper. Their debut self-titled album, released in late 2016, showcased their creative range with tracks that blend dreamy melodies, intricate grooves, and socially conscious lyrics. The group is known for their electrifying live performances and collaborative spirit, often working with other artists in New York’s underground scene. Their follow-up album, 'Velvet,' continues their exploration of genre, incorporating analog synths, drum machines, and live groove sessions to create a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

The Love Experiment has built a reputation as progressive representatives of a new generation of soul music, frequently collaborating with Grammy-winning artists and dynamic MCs. Their work is characterized by a willingness to experiment with sound and theme, particularly the complexities of love, which is central to their identity and creative output.

Fun Facts

• The band’s first show as The Love Experiment was at a warehouse party, where the audience’s reaction inspired them to become a permanent group.
• Their name originated as a joke for a school talent show but stuck as their music began to focus on the complexities of love.
• Drummer Charles Burchell also performs as a rapper under the alias 'Karnival Kid.'
• The group’s live shows are known for their improvisational energy and have included secret parties and collaborations with artists across genres.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• J Dilla - Major stylistic influence, especially in hip-hop and groove production (General inspiration for rhythmic approach) [2010s–present]
• Erykah Badu - Inspirational figure for soul and R&B elements (General influence on vocal and songwriting style) [2010s–present]
• Flying Lotus - Influence on electronic and experimental aspects (General influence on production and sonic exploration) [2010s–present]
• Robert Glasper - Influence on jazz fusion and improvisational approach (General influence on arrangements) [2010s–present]

Key Collaborators

• JSWISS - Frequent collaborator, met through NYC jam sessions (Collaborations at Blue Light Party and Tiger Speak sessions) [2014–present]
• J. Hoard - Original member, Grammy-winning songwriter, rejoined for 'Velvet' album ('Velvet' album, NYC underground jam scene) [2010s, 2020s]
• Pink Siifu - Featured MC on 'Velvet' album ('Velvet' album) [2020s]
• C-Red - Featured MC on 'Velvet' album ('Velvet' album) [2020s]

Artists Influenced

• NYC underground jam scene artists - Inspired peers and younger musicians through collaborative sessions and live performances (Blue Light Party, Tiger Speak sessions) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Baby Can't You See (BINARY)
2. The World Looks So Brand New (BINARY)
3. Crazy Love (BINARY)
4. Who's Gonna Save the World (Who's Gonna Save the World)
5. Baby Can't You See (BINARY)
6. You (BINARY)
7. Beat-Lude Pt. 1 (BINARY)
8. Fragile Ego (BINARY)
9. Atonement (BINARY)
10. Summer Jawn (BINARY)

External Links

• Spotify