G. Love

It's been a long, successful run for the Philadelphia native and self-described "hip-hop blues artist,” whose self-titled 1994 Okeh/Epic Records debut was certified Gold on the strength of the MTV hit, "Cold Beverage,” and a non-stop performing ethic that still has them playing more than 150 shows a year. In fact, the group just recently returned from a headline tour in Australia that was highlighted by some shows with Jack Johnson, and will accompany him to Europe this spring. Upon their return to the U.S., the band will be headlining their own outdoor amphitheatre tour with John Butler Trio later this summer.

"We’re a hard-working band,” says G. Love of the group’s turnaround over the last two albums, 2006’s Lemonade and 2004’s The Hustle. "Every time we hit the stage or the studio, we make sure we give 150%. Playing in front of people is just such an integral part of the experience for us. We love to ride that energy and get that instant reaction.”

Superhero Brother, recorded in Philadelphia at The Studio and the band’s own Philadelphonic Studios, as well as Longview Farms Barn in Sturbridge, MA, combines both political and party songs. The album is a reflection of the band’s eclectic recipe for its Special Sauce, from tasty, post-hip-hop Beatles-influenced blues-rock ("Communication”), spicy tropical island rhythms over an Archie Bell and the Drells "Tighten Up” groove ("City Livin’”) and well-seasoned Chambers Brothers-style funk-rock crossed with Cream’s "I Feel Free” ("What We Need”) to sweet, blue-eyed Philly soul ("Crumble”), a red-hot Stones-y "Sympathy for the Devil” vibe ("Peace Love and Happiness”) and homemade, rappin’ blues layered on top of a John Lee Hooker Delta stomp ("Superhero Brother”).

"I think of us as a rock and roll group,” explains G. Love. "We definitely incorporate a lot of different flavors, which is why we tried to focus on what we’re known for this time… Making sure the backbeats are funky. Each song tells a unique story, both in subject and musical style.”