PARTY...PLACE. | VINYL RECORD (LP)

It was the early 2000's in Jacksonville, FL. Pre-social media, the Myspace Era. The acclaimed indie rap quartet, Asamov had recently put Duval County's underground Hiphop scene on the map, and their triple-threat frontman, Therapy aka Paten Locke was searching for some new inspiration. Paten would find the spark he was looking for in the newly minted couple making 'Heavenly Noise' in Jacksonville nightclubs - Batsauce and his wife, Lady Daisey. With Batsauce on the beats and Lady Daisey providing vocal harmonies (and graphics for the group), Paten found himself surrounded by a new creative energy that allowed him to relinquish the reigns on the production side and focus on his pen-game. Thus, The Smile Rays were born and they immediately started shinin'. Their soundscapes were rooted in funk, jazz and soul - sticking to a similar formula of eras past but adding twists and turns to make it their own. Their lyrics & song concepts were uplifting and hopeful. Their chemistry on stage was undeniable. With their electric live show and eclectic makeup, the trio took Jacksonville by storm and the world took notice. Paten's experience with Asamov opened doors for the group and soon they had their first deal on the table - a 12" single with Germany's Jakarta Records for their beloved anthem for the babies, 'A Toast'. On the heels of their initial 12", they were enlisted for the 'Rawkus 50' and released their first EP. Soon to follow, Japanese label 'Subcontact' offered to release another 12" plus their debut full-length album. That release became Party... Place. And it was released in 2007 in Japan only, on CD. Now for the 1st time ever, the debut album from The Smile Rays is available on all DSPs + limited vinyl pressing. The album features George Clinton, Dillon and Willie Evans Jr. And is sure to be treasured by fans of eras past and those still yet to come.