Wabi Sabi, the Atlanta-based musical collective known for their eclectic fusion of funk, reggae, Latin, rock, and swing, releases their latest single “Lady Lush (Studio Version)” today across all streaming platforms. The track marks another bold chapter in the band’s 26-year journey of creating “imperfect beauty” through music.
“Lady Lush” is an original reggae composition that explores the duality of temptation – whether it’s the mischievous spirit that whispers sweet nothings about another drink, or a girlfriend whose life is spiraling dangerously out of control. Drawing lyrical inspiration similar to Billy Joel’s “Big Shot,” the song showcases Wabi Sabi’s storytelling prowess wrapped in infectious Caribbean rhythms.
The studio version features a powerhouse 9-piece ensemble, highlighted by a deliberately “tipsy” trombone solo that perfectly embodies the song’s theme, and concludes with an almost taunting trumpet that leaves listeners both satisfied and wanting more. The track demonstrates the band’s evolution from their 1999 origins as a 3-piece group originally called “Damian Cartier (And His My Newt Orchestra)” to their current incarnation that can expand to 11 members.
“This song captures that moment when you’re not sure if you’re being seduced by a substance or a person – and maybe it doesn’t matter,” says Damian Cartier, Wabi Sabi’s founder and primary songwriter. “The reggae groove gives it this laid-back feel, but there’s an underlying tension that keeps you on edge.”
