First-class smooth big band funk
The Souljazz Orchestra they may be, but the word which most perfectly encapsulates the style of music promulgated by this collection of ladies and gentlemen is not incorporated into their name. What this Orchestra has made their specialisation is best described as big-band funk, or perhaps Funk with a capital F...
Clearly influenced by the Afro-beat movement to a considerable extent, such that the relentlessly-groovy beat which underpins the funk / jazz soloing has its roots firmly in traditional African tribal rhythms, the irresistible, hypnotic, funky tunes that result could have you dancing until you collapse with exhaustion, only to resume on awakening with renewed vigour.
Though vocals are part of what they do, lyrics are scarce (and mostly not in English) and the voices are more used in the fashion of another instrument. Remarkably, every note played by each part of the ensemble seems to somehow assist and invigorate the groove at the heart of each song. Anyone partial to a bit of top quality, ‘70’s style funk should not miss this record.
BAND'S SITE
Eddie Thomas
