US trio Gabriels are well-situated to be the talk of the music world in no time, with the group's debut album arriving this week to what will soon be widespread critical acclaim.

For those unaware of the Gabriels story, it's probably time to get you up to speed. The group – comprising Jacob Lusk, Ryan Hope, Ari Balouzian – have been on the scene for a few years now, with their debut recordings being released back in 2018. However, it's in recent years that they've managed to turn heads thanks to their infectious sound, which marries old-school funk and jazz, with modern, soulful R&B vibes.

Releasing their 2020 EP Love And Hate In A Different Time, and following it up with 2021's Bloodline, the group's profile begun to rise rapidly. In addition to capturing the attention of Elton John, they've managed to score televised appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live! and Later... With Jools Holland, and even a support slot for Harry Styles.

With their infectious and arresting musical style managing to keep them in the spotlight at every turn, the group have now taken a rather unconventional approach to their debut album, whose first half arrived just this week.

Produced by Sounwave (who has previously worked with the likes of Kendrick Lamar), Gabriels describe the album as "a unique exploration of love and loss from each of our differing perspectives". However, while they had initially planned to release the record in full next year, newfound opportunities saw the record's first half released earlier than expected.

"We were planning to release our album next year, but got the opportunity to collaborate with some of the most amazing people who initially were strangers, but within weeks became family in the most mind blowing process," the group explained. "As the first part of the album was recorded, we knew we wanted to share it with you as soon as possible."

As such, the group's debut album, Kings & Queens – Part I, has now been released into the world, with Part II set to arrive in March 2023. 

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Already, Part I stands tall as one of the year's best releases thanks to its impassioned, powerful performance style and heart-rending musical compositions, so it only remains to be seen how Part II looks to either improve or complement this already-stunning piece of work.