Rhonda

Rhonda delivers a sound that feels like a lost classic found in a dusty Hamburg basement. It is deeply rooted in the traditions of 1960s Motown and Northern Soul, but it carries a distinct indie-rock edge that keeps it from feeling like a mere museum piece. The music is anchored by Milo Milone's commanding, smoky vocals, which navigate the space between heartbreak and defiance with effortless cool.

What sets them apart is their pedigree. Having emerged from the garage rock outfit Trashmonkeys, the band retains a certain muscularity in their rhythm section and a sharpness in their guitar work that most retro-soul acts lack. There is a cinematic, almost noir-like quality to their arrangements, blending lush orchestration with the raw energy of a live band. It is sophisticated without being precious, and nostalgic without being dated.

Start with their debut album Raw Love to hear the band at their most urgent and soul-focused. For a more expansive and polished take on their sound, the 2023 release Forever Yours showcases their evolution into a more atmospheric and mature ensemble. It is the perfect soundtrack for those hours when the sun is down and the mood is reflective.