By Stella Hufhines
San Diego’s modern soul trio, Thee Sacred Souls, has returned with their highly anticipated sophomore album Got a Story to Tell, released in early October 2024. Known for fusing timeless Motown vibes with a contemporary twist, the group elevates their signature sound in this album, offering a collection of rich stories wrapped in smooth rhythms and an unmistakably more refined, mature style. While their first album introduced the world to the band’s unique sound, this follow-up album showcases growth in both lyrics and production. After the runaway success of their debut and a worldwide tour, it’s no surprise that this album feels like a natural step forward, with a newfound depth and maturity.
The front half of the album, beginning with “Lucid Girl,” is filled with the fun and joyful themes that define Three Sacred Souls’ signature sound. This opening track sets the tone with the line, “I got a story to tell, and I told it so many times.” From there, lead vocalist Josh Lane embarks on a lyrical journey, weaving through various tales with each song.
Midway through the album, we’re treated to “Somebody Knew,” a standout track that embodies the album’s playful retro vibe while showcasing Lane’s powerful, emotive vocals. While many of the band’s tracks lean toward feel-good, sunny melodies, this one carries a sassy, bitter edge that I absolutely love. The chorus, where Lane powerfully sings, “Now I’m the fool, now I’m the fool who lost his lover to someone that he hardly knew,” reveals the band’s evolving sound and style—there’s nothing quite like this on their debut album.
Following this track is “My Heart is Drowning,” which carries forward the melancholic tone from “Somebody Knew.” The track instantly grabs attention with the subtle sound of water droplets and then goes on the blend the band’s classic Motown vibe with the influence of 60s girl groups. The repetitive, echoing background vocals, paired with a vintage-sounding piano, make this track stand out as one of the more distinctive offerings on the album.
As the album winds down, we get to “In the Mirror,” where the mood shifts to something even more introspective. With standout guitar features and the band’s impressive instrumentation, the song delivers a somber lyrical punch, with Lane singing, “I look in the mirror and I don’t see me. No, I see a monster.” These factors, along with the deeply emotional delivery and haunting backup vocals, make it one of the most heartfelt and moving tracks on the album.
The final track, “I’m So Glad I Found You, Baby,” brings the album full circle, returning to the uplifting themes of love, peace, and joy that Thee Sacred Souls are known for. It’s the perfect, feel-good conclusion, with its retro sound and heartwarming lyrics offering a fitting reflection of the band’s core message.
Got a Story to Tell is everything I hoped for and more. While Thee Sacred Souls could’ve easily coasted on the success of their debut, it’s clear they’ve pushed themselves to evolve both musically and thematically. This album marks a significant step forward, and as they prepare for their next tour, I have no doubt their sound will continue to grow and mature.