BusCrates is an artist from Pittsburgh who has been releasing music for over ten years. After spending a lot of that time releasing one-off projects here and there, he finally released a proper full-length album, Blasting Off, on Bastard Jazz in 2020. Now he is back to build on that foundation with a new full-length, Control Center.

BusCrates grew up in the ‘90s hip hop era, but with a love of ‘80s keyboard funk. It was this smooth electro-boogie that he laid down on his last album that made up the core of his sound, and it’s what he is returning to on this one as well. I mean, if it ain’t broke, why fix it? BusCrates is an incredible keyboard player, and he’s only gotten better at writing melodies, constructing grooves, and arranging songs. Control Center is funky, but it’s also sophisticated and smooth as hell. It is just full of tasty grooves that will get your head bobbing and your toes tapping before you even realize what’s happening. It’s the type of music that makes for a perfect late night soundtrack, whether you’re driving around and just absorbing the summer night air or getting those reluctant few onto the dance floor to shake something loose. On top of all the instrumental goodies that BusCrates is laying down, we get a gem to close out the album when he’s joined by vocalist Soraya Watti on “On My Way.” She has excellent musical chemistry with BusCrates, and her voice just soars over his production to end the whole experience on a very entertaining and engaging note.

Control Center is an excellent summer album from BusCrates. He continues what he started on Blasting Off and just hones each aspect of the music a little further, resulting in some really well-written and produced keyboard funk that will have you dancing through these hot summer nights.