Jazz meets the Gullah culture of the Carolina coast in the exuberant music of Ranky Tanky, which has come a long way in a few short years. The band, a five-piece, just released its second album, Good Time — an aptly titled clutch of songs that proudly show their roots, evoking a Lowcountry blend of deep spirituals, West African folk songs, rustic country, and creolized soul.
As with Ranky Tanky’s self-titled debut album, which was released to high acclaim in 2017, Good Time puts Quiana Parler’s commanding voice front and center, to strong effect. But this is a group that also touts its supporting players: the rubbery groove of drummer Quentin Baxter and bassist Kevin Hamilton, the smart trumpet work of Charlton Singleton. And this album draws a bit more focus on Clay Ross, both as a guitarist and a singer.