A retro soul performer based in Austin, Texas, Brian Scartocci fronted various local bands before deciding to pursue a career a soloist. Back in 2012 he featured on The Voice US, delivering a slightly uneven rendition of Stevie Wonder’s ‘Isn’t She Lovely’ but still showcasing his vocal abilities.

Scartocci’s original material is a much better illustration of his talents. From the chord progressions, guitar work, and vocal arrangements, his latest single ‘Trust In Love’ owes heavily to the pop-soul material of Sam Cooke – one of the key figures to breakthrough from the world of gospel into the realm of secular, popular music. In Scartocci’s words, the tune ‘[reminds] the listener to curb their jealous tendencies and “trust in love.“‘

A quaint ditty with a bright refrain, the tune is a comfortable outlet for Scartocci’s vocals. He croons earnestly, sliding into his falsetto and flashing some gravelly tones at the top end. A lovely, throwback effort.

(Image copyright: Retro-Soul)