Aloe Blacc makes a name for himself in the music business with “Lift Your Spirit,” a soulful and creative album with a classy feel. His vintage sound made it more difficult for him to produce hits, but his throwback tone has shaped him into a model of modern success.

His stardom peaked after the 2010 anthem, “I Need a Dollar,” and went Top Ten in ten countries. This caught the attention of Interscope Records, founded by Jimmy Lovine and Giorgio Saravia, who snatched him from the esteemed independent Stones Throw Records. The combination of his song’s unexpected hype and signing a contract with Interscope Records was only the beginning of his road to fame.

Blacc had a strong desire to impress the rapper, Dr. Dre, who was a fan of his voice but told him he would have to work on making better lyrics and themes in his music before working with him. This made Blacc write a song sure to make Dre sing while rolling down the street. The song is “The Man,” which referenced the legendary Elton John and scaled music charts following its release and incorporation into commercials. In the end, Dre made a significant impact on the soul artist in the production of “Lift Your Spirit.”

Blacc co-wrote and provided the lead vocals for Avicii’s “Wake Me Up,” which scaled the charts and made an even larger splash than his previous track. In addition to an acoustic version of “Wake Me Up,” the album features eleven meaningful tracks, eight of which he co-produced. Veterans DJ Khalil and Pharrell Williams are notable producers the musician teamed up with.

The album plucks from 1960’s pop and 1970’s soul without taking enough of it to become retro, maintaining a modern feel that causes a stir on the dance floor. His music is so experimental that it appeals to today’s youth, while providing a folkish, old-school vibe to charm an older crowd. “Red Velvet Seat” is a true love song laced into a 60’s soul vibe that will bring back memories of old romantic tunes.

An exciting sound, aided by elegant horns and strings, reflects the idea of “lifting one’s spirit” throughout the majority of the album. Tracks such as “Love Is the Answer,” “The Hand Is Quicker,” and “Lift Your Spirit” will have music listeners lifted from their sorrows and basking in the moment.