Boston’s The Macrotones are a quality group, and that shows in the band’s latest EP Bloody Hands, which delves into the mythos of R&B, soul, and funk to retrieve a sound that has all the grit and glamour of ‘70s underground afrobeat clubs. The title track is led by a robust bassline that slithers in sync with the serrated vocals and snappy beat that add flame to it. “Nighttime Persona” uses brass instrumentation and vibrant, lingering electric guitar work to embellish a song smooth and soulful. The Macrotones find in these tracks the blues edge that artists like Fantastic Negrito and Gary Clark Jr. so effortlessly have.  “All Intentions Hidden” packs the full spirit of a group that does not fear to lose itself in the music it creates; For the right sort of trip stream the bluesy “Snakehunter” below. - Rene Cobar