New Venusians (self-titled long-player March 2017) combine alternative sensibilities with funky beats and a hip-hop soul to create a truly fresh sound, fronted for the most part by the beautiful high soprano vocals of talented Meklit Kibret. On their debut release, the beats and bass are a powerful influence, providing an ever-present metronome to the infectious melodies here. Present, too, are elements of vocal and instrumental jazz, making the overall sound complex but very accessible. You can find information on New Venusians from their Facebook about page. They do have…
Read MoreAfro-jazz funk-rock group, EMEFE, appeared on Vodka almost 3 years ago with the stunning Stutter. Come Back To Me is from the band’s self-titled long-player (May 2015) and the band is out now with a new EP, Time (May 2016). Notable for their funky danceable rhythms, their completely awesome horn section, and just a touch of whimsy, EMEFE never ceases to impress! You can find more information on EMEFE by visiting their website or pick up some great tunes from EMEFE from their bandcamp.com site. If you are as…
Read MoreAustralian drummer turned band front man, JP (a.k.a. John Milton), and Losing My Mind from the debut four-song EP, Part 1 (November 2015) is a study in bass-driven, melodic, genre blending styles. This rehearsal video, isn’t necessarily studio quality in all respects, but it certainly gives you a hint at what the EP sounds like. If you have any doubt, click over to the bandcamp.com link and listen. JP’s vocals are unpretentious and perfect for sharing a lyric. He has a pleasing…
Read MoreSometimes it’s just about the music, and that is the case with Redtenbacher’s Funkestra and Dr. Hypenstein from the forth coming (as of this writing-it should be out by the time you read this) long-player by the same name. Funk is all about the music, all about the beat and all about moving your feet. Redtenbacher’s Funkestra is the brain child of musician, arranger, composer, performer, Stefan Redtenbacher. who’s been making great instrumental music for a fair amount of time already. All of…
Read MoreCombining rock, jazz, rhythm and blues, soul, funk and hip-hop styling may sound crazy, but The Lonely Biscuits make the blending of these styles into a style all its own on Butter. To say that it works is an understatement! Butter’s 3:20 seconds seem incredibly short, because you want more when it’s all over. Originally formed in 2011 as Gravy and The Biscuits, The Lonely Biscuits sound fresh and new. They also are amazingly accomplished, from the beat-poet in Grady Wenrich (a.k.a., Gravy…
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