“As It Lays” by prolific songwriter Jane McNealy is a laid-back yet richly textured jazz-funk track that pulses with the spirit of 1980s urban life. Released through Lo-Flo Records as part of Songs from the Vault: Reel #6 – The Breaks, the track is paired with “Play It,” forming a nostalgic double-feature infused with hip-hop beats and retro funk grooves.
“As It Lays” leans into a more relaxed atmosphere, driven by McNealy’s elegant piano and bass arrangements that evoke lazy afternoons and carefree moments—like roller skating through Central Park. The groove is effortless, but the craftsmanship is clear, the sound timeless.
McNealy adds a fascinating detail to the track’s origin: it was composed using early music software running on MS-DOS, long before Apple’s rise with the Mac. “I worked for three days and nights learning the software,” she recalls, also using an Oberheim drum machine to create the rhythm sections. The result is a perfect blend of analog soul and digital experimentation—a snapshot of a musically daring era.
“As It Lays” is a sonic postcard from the past, revived for modern ears. A must-listen for fans of vintage jazz, funk, and lo-fi grooves.
