Mayer Hawthorne's debut release, back on heart-shaped vinyl! It's easy to hear why "Just Ain't Gonna Work Out" was on constant rotation at the Lab (as well as being highly praised by the likes of Mark Ronson and Gilles Peterson) back when it was originally released in 2008. The refreshing 60's soul grooves topped with Mayer Hawthorne's infectious, falsetto singing style have confused many into thinking this was either some old rare 45 or some kind of break beat re-edit, but the truth of the matter is it is indeed a completely original song - produced, played, AND sung by a then-29-year old white dude from Michigan! For real, this kid's got soul. Check the late nite slow jam "When I Said Goodbye" on side B for even more proof. I predict big things in the near future for Hawthorne - he's definitely bringing the realness (Lab prediction on point as usual). Pressed up on cherry red, heart shaped 10" vinyl (note: actual play size is more of a 7-inch, the disc itself is 10 inches). Highly recommended.

• clear red colored vinyl pressing
• heart-shaped die-cut vinyl
• side A: 'Just Ain't Gonna Work Out'
• side B: 'When I Said Goodbye'
• original release year: 2008
• music label: Stones Throw 2016

reviewed by snackmaster 11/2008