(via Spinner)

 

Part of the reason the retro-soul sound of Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings works so well (aside from the fact that Ms. Jones can sing circles around most neo-soul artistes without even working up a sweat) is the fact that they make no bones about the anachronistic nature of their approach. They've never tried to trick up their vintage vibe with contemporary trappings; they're proud to let it be the '60s-soul homage that it is, and that's exactly what makes it vital and relevant. Seemingly paradoxical but true, and in that spirit, their new video for "Tell Me" runs a similar riff, make Sharon and the Kings look like they're appearing on Shindig, or some such classic '60s show, complete with grainy black-and-white look, calling "retro" on themselves and simultaneously turning a possible cavil into a badge of R&B honor.