One listen to Herbaliser’s new album, Same As It Never Was reveals that the title is more than a clever turn of phrase. The album sees the group expanding from its core production duo to a line-up of five permanent members. With the addition of frequent touring players Ralph Lamb and Andy Ross, a scratchy, live band funk sound replaces the deep digging loops and samples of previous albums. A heavy soul influence pervades, augmented by the addition of a fiery young vocalist, Jessica Darling.

Although Same As It Never Was may be their most song-driven album to date, Herbaliser has not overlooked their tradition of showcasing talented rappers from both sides of the Atlantic. In addition to Yungun’s meditation on technological advances on “Just Don’t Stop,” Toronto-based More Or Les and long time Herbz collaborator Jean Grae contribute rich, story-laden rhymes. They’ve also embraced their instrumental leanings, with fierce results. Drawing on the likes of John Barry, David Axelrod, and Quincy Jones, Herbaliser take those undertones and run them through their own unique grinder. Same As It Never Was reaches an epic climax with the gorgeously sensual final track, “Stranded On Earth.” The natural successor to long-time Herbaliser favourite “Moon Sequence,” this jazz-soul symphony features a stunning vocal performance by Jessica that nods to vintage 1970s Pink Floyd.