Curtis Mayfield. Al Green. Leroy Hutson. Smokey Robinson. Mayer Hawthorne? At first glance, the last name in the list may scream of soul sacrilege but Mayer’s recent release A Strange Arrangement is more than mere homage.

This is neo-soul in the strictest sense of terms, old school with new tools, and another example of imitation being the sincerest form of flattery. It is easy to imagine Hawthorne’s flat filled to the ceiling with dusty Detroit grooves, dapper tailored suits and backing singers harmonizing during mundane morning activities. In fact, Motown maverick Berry Gordy might have moved mountains to add Mayer to his list of musicians had he been able to hear the same demos that prompted Stones Throw head Peanut Butter Wolf to sign the kid from Ann Arbor.

So prepare for a treat as we meet Mayer Hawthorne to discuss tours, tweed and new technologies.