Bonnevilleโs latest single, โFlying Machine,โ is a nostalgic yet forward-looking burst of retro-futuristic soul, which landed on May 21st with a shimmer of funk, a pulse of dance groove, and a sky-high dose of imagination. Itโs the title track of their sophomore album and shifts from the bandโs usual Southern retro-soul signature. Here, Bonneville dives headfirst into a slick, spacey blend of electronic textures and analog warmth, think Jamiroquai meets Stevie Wonder in a moonlit dreamscape.
The songโs origin story is as enchanting as the sound itself. Guitarist and co-producer Jeff Hayashi found inspiration in his toddler son, gazing up at the moon in quiet wonder. That moment of childlike awe evolved into an ode to youthful imagination and a grown-upโs yearning for creative freedom. The irresistible groove is anchored by slinky basslines, sparkly synths, and crisp, laid-back drumming that recalls the golden age of post-disco funk.
Lead vocalist Wes McGee takes that dreamy groove and gives it emotional weight. His performance glides from airy and whimsical to impassioned and grounded, capturing a deep longing to transcend limitationsโbe they societal or self-imposed. Lyrically, โFlying Machineโ channels the boundless energy of a child turning a cardboard box into a spaceship, while musically, it turns nostalgia into propulsion. It nods to Michael Jackson as well with the spectacular vocal delivery, giving the song a wide-reaching appeal.
Produced at the legendary Muscle Shoals with GRAMMY-recognized producer Starita, the track masterfully balances live instrumentation with digital accents, jazz-rooted chords meet MIDI shimmer without losing clarity or charm. After years of tinkering, reworking the chorus, and navigating sonic overload, the band finally unlocked the powerful chorus it needed.
โFlying Machineโ invites you to reimagine yourself with childlike wonder and grown-up guts. Check it out on Spotify.
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Review by: Naomi Joan