Beloved freestyle band Nu Shooz released to the world its first album in 28 years. “Bagtown” (2016) comes to us upon the completion of a hugely successful Pledge Music campaign that saw 139% of its goal obtained. Described as a moment of spontaneous combustion, the group dubbed the record as the “Shooz version of the Big Bang.” Its a return to the funk, soul and jazz sounds of the mid-’70s, having set its sights on the dance floor.
Fronted by Valerie Day and John Smith, the Seattle-based group gained national and international acclaim with the remix of its 1985 tune “I Can’t Wait.” The new version was included on “Poolside” (1986)—which reached No. 27 on the albums chart—and skyrocketed all the way to No. 1 on the dance, No. 2 on the R&B and No. 3 on the pop chart. Also featured on the album, “Point of No Return” scored the group its second No. 1 dance hit and a Top 40 on the pop and R&B charts. The third and final Nu Shooz album, “Told U So” (1988), spawned the No. 2 dance hit “Are You Lookin’ for Somebody Nu.” This was the band’s last studio-produced record ever released until just now.
The “Bagtown” campaign culminated with an album release party and concert at the Star Theater in Portland, OR, which was also streamed live online for its pledgers. You can get your hands on this funky soulful new title by both digital download and physical purchase through Amazon, iTunes or CD Baby. The 9-song disc is certain to having you jamming and swing the night away. Also, keep your eyes peeled for Nu Shooz appearing on solo shows and ’80s tours throughout the country for a chance to hear the pulse-pumping classics and these new tunes performed live.
