Sometimes, loyal reader, I have a hard time finding a band for your Funk Friday. This week, I didn’t have any such problem. A search for UK funk bands on ReverbNation led me to Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. In addition to the high-energy tunes, this band also drew me in with the first paragraph of its bio.
Like funk? Well, you’re probably a fan of polyester bell bottoms, oversize Bootsy Collins sunglasses and hair picks. You probably live in Brooklyn or London’s East End and have a healthy but romanticized reverence for all things from past eras.
I don’t have to tell you that I like the funk (thus Funk Friday being a long-time fixture here) even though I don’t live in Brooklyn or London’s East End. I don’t own any bell bottoms, but I’m not opposed to them. And well, what’s not to love about Bootsy Collins?
Stefan Redtenbacher grew up in Austria and as he listened to artists like Maceo Parker, he was drawn to the bass (who isn’t?). That was an excellent choice for him. No one in this band is a slouch by any means, but the bass lines in these tunes sure do jump out at me. Granted, that’s not the only aspect of the band that jumps out at me. Just listen to “Bow Wow.” This is the very definition of a tight arrangement. This song has layers of sound that seem to come at you from every direction. And if this tune doesn’t get you moving, you’re probably some dour old soul that sucks on lemons and yells at kids to get off your lawn.
Now, I could sit here and tell you all about this band, but I think you would be much better served just listening for yourself. This is music for a house party. I guarantee your guests won’t be looking toward the door if you put this band on. They’ll probably wonder how much of this funk goodness you have. Do yourself a favor and add some house party music to your Friday.
Hi, Great write-up – love it! We have a new album come out tomorrow! It is called ‘The Cooker’…do you want me to send your way? Thank you again for the great article!
Stefan, I’d love to have the new album. A digital version would be great because my kids can’t scratch that.
Always love checking out the new funkyness that you guys find and share! Keep it up!
Thanks for checking it out. We always like finding new funk bands and we always accept recommendations.