East Lansing's own Groove Doctors 3, a trio of Michigan State University academics, have recently released their debut album, ‘Live And Let Live’, unleashing a heavy dose of psychedelic pop. Comprised of guitarist/vocalist Michael Lawrence, drummer David Stowe, and bassist Glenn Chambers, the trio have channelled their lifelong passion for music into the album, blending soulful covers with heartfelt originals.
Released on Maintain Zen Music label, ‘Live and Let Live’ plunges you into a vibrant world of psychedelic pop. From start to finish, you're met with bright, sun-kissed melodies and spiralling melodies that twist and shine, regardless of whether it’s a cover or one Groove Doctor 3’s originals. There’s an art form in making the album sound cohesive, with pop hooks bursting through layered atmospherics with ease, rolling through moments of blissful nostalgia.
Kicking off with the optimistic glow of ‘Sunny’, Groove Doctors 3 reinvigorate Bobby Hebb’s classic, setting the tone for things to come. ‘Behold the Duke’ delivers the first taste of a Groove Doctors 3 original, a light-hearted cut laced with easy blues. Switching between covers and originals, the album keeps the mood light, from the low-key rhythms of King Floyd’s ‘Groove Me’ to the detour into Bossa Nova in Antonio Jobim’s ‘Wave’, it’s an album of charming, wandering hits.
As with ‘Behold the Duke’, the other original tracks are where the heart and soul of the album lie. The title track holds to psychedelic guitar line that blends with punchy hooks and lyrics pushing for unity and empathy. “Neighbours helping neighbours is the mark of cool, treat ‘em like yourself, yeah, the Golden Rule,” says it all. Elsewhere, ‘Love Is The Way’ and ‘Peace Within’ tread a similar path, offering hopeful messages that float through two very different sounds. Rolling melodies and gently droning vocals take the helm in ‘Love Is The Way’, while fans of Bob Marley will enjoy the slight reggae lilt that fills ‘Peace Within’.
While not a perfectly polished or immaculately designed release, ‘Live and Let Live’ is honest, authentic, and true to its roots. It’s a diverse and joyful homage to the trio’s influences and inspirations, shaped by classics but also filled with their own ethos and style. Ultimately, ‘Live and Let Live’ is a testament to the joy of making music among friends, with the Groove Doctors 3 bouncing ideas off each other and creating songs that truly reflect who they are.
You can stream the full album above, and be sure to join Groove Doctors 3 on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook.
