Description

Night Owls – Hercules (7″) [F-Spot Records FSPT1039]

***PRE-ORDER – Est. 18 April 2025***

To round out their second wave of 7″ singles, Night Owls bring the heat once again with their signature sound and vision. Re-imagining two Aaron Neville classics, “Hercules” feat. Alex Désert and The Lions b/w “Tell It Like It Is” feat. Asdru Sierra from Ozomatli, Night Owls up the ante by bringing in some heavy hitters for both sides of this 45.

Side A’s “Hercules” features long-time collaborators and bandmates from The Lions (Stones Throw, Ubiquity, NYCT) – the soulful tenor of Alex Désert (also Hepcat) on lead blending seamlessly with the familiar voices of Deston Berry (Hepcat) and Malik Moore (Ocean 11) on backing harmonies. The Lions’ front line locks in tight from the many years performing together on top of a darker and grittier interpretation of Allen Toussaint’s masterpiece complete with fuzzed-out guitar, Space Echoes and rhythm drops.

On the flip, “Tell It Like It Is” keeps the momentum going and hips swaying with added Colombian percussion elements and California lowrider vibes. Featuring L.A. family and multitalented vocalist of Ozomatli, Asdru Sierra, on lead and Night Owl Dan Ubick on backing vocals Side B creates a unique blend of reggae and Cumbia into a very fresh take on this multi-generational hit.