Cinematic soul in new single ‘Only Words’ by Cookin’ On 3 Burners
Cookin’ On 3 Burners continue their 2025 rollout with “Only Words”, a lush, slow-burning groove featuring acclaimed soul vocalist Natalie Slade (Steve Spacek/ Katalyst / Simon Mavin), another taste of the Burners’ long-awaited upcoming new album Cookin’ The Books, due October 31st.
Blending their signature deep funk foundation with emotional depth and cinematic sweep, “Only Words” is a masterclass in soul restraint. Slade’s haunting vocal floats across a downtempo rhythm section, elevated by a rich string arrangement from composer and violinist Tamil Rogeon (Son of Nyx / Aloe Blacc / The Dandy Warhols).
“It’s that moment when you realise – ughh, it’s happened again,” says Slade. “Another relationship that started out so sweet and ended so sour. All those hopes of love and connection just ended up being a whole lotta words – and most of them, lies. It’s not written about one heartbreak – it’s for all of them. I’m blown away by how deep the arrangement is,” she adds. “The lyric speaks of love falling short, but the music is so lush that it reassures you that you’re gonna be okay“.
Recorded live to tape at Soul Messin ’Studios on vintage analog gear, “Only Words” showcases a different side of the Burners – slower, deeper, and more emotionally resonant, without losing their unmistakable groove. It’s a standout moment on Cookin’ The Books, the band’s first studio LP in six years, which also features appearances from Stella Angelico, Mantra & Jane Tyrrell, Wilson Blackley, and more.!
“Only Words”out Digitally on October 3rd 2025 via Soul Messin’ Records
