Superfast infectious grooves…
Ignite your sidereal stride with our curated compilation of pulsating, galactic grooves.
POW – Larry Graham, Graham Central Station
Larry Graham, the genius behind the iconic “slap” bass, takes his rightful throne in “POW”. Released in 1978, this album is a powerhouse of funk energy that explodes with every track. Graham’s pioneering style influenced generations of bass players, adding a deep, earthy groove to every beat. It’s impossible not to feel the raw energy pulsating through “POW”. If you’re looking for a song to get your blood pumping, this is the one. POW!
Kool & The Gang – Kool & The Gang
Before they were synonymous with party anthems, “Kool & The Gang” had a raw, funky sound that hits you right in the gut. Their self-titled debut album from 1969 blends jazz, soul, and funk with an almost primal force. The band’s brass section is explosive, while the rhythm section lays down an infectious groove. Kool’s early days were all about jamming in gritty clubs—if you close your eyes, you can almost feel the sweat and intensity from their live performances.
Hangin’ On – Brainstorm
1977’s “Stormin’” by Brainstorm delivered a hurricane of rhythms, with “Hangin’ On” being one of the standout tracks. This Detroit-based collective knew how to weave funk with a cosmic soul, creating a psychedelic tapestry that wraps around you and pulls you in. Brainstorm was never afraid to experiment, and their playful approach gives the track its unique flavor. If you love a funky groove with a cosmic twist, this is your jam.
Get Yourself Together – The Soul Snatchers
The Netherlands isn’t exactly the first place you’d think of when it comes to funk, but The Soul Snatchers prove otherwise. Their 2007 album “Sniffin’ & Snatchin’” packs a punch with tracks like “Get Yourself Together.” This band knows how to channel that 70s funk soul sound while giving it a modern, gritty edge. Funky horns and tight percussion? Check. Soulful vocals? Absolutely. It’s a track that begs you to move.
Shake and Hip Drop – The Sound Stylistics
Imagine the funk of James Brown with a little spy thriller mixed in—that’s The Sound Stylistics in a nutshell. “Shake and Hip Drop” from their 2007 album “Greasin’ The Wheels” comes in hot with an irresistible groove. The UK-based collective combines sharp brass stabs with gritty guitar licks, delivering a track that’s equal parts retro and contemporary. If the secret agents of funk had a theme song, this would be it.
Space Jogging – Misha Panfilov
“Space Jogging” sounds exactly like its title—funky rhythms that make you feel like you’re floating through the galaxy. Misha Panfilov, a musician and producer from Estonia, brings a retro-futuristic vibe in this 2018 release. His sound is a throwback to the 60s and 70s cosmic funk, but with a fresh, modern twist. The dreamy organ riffs and chilled groove will have you wanting to put on a spacesuit and moonwalk.
Get On The Good Foot (Pt.1 & 2) – James Brown
When the Godfather of Soul commands you to “Get On The Good Foot”, you listen. Released in 1972, this James Brown anthem splits itself into two fiery parts, with a rhythm so infectious you’d need to see a doctor if you don’t start moving. James Brown was in his prime here, revolutionizing funk with syncopated rhythms and shouts of pure soul. There’s a reason he’s the king—nobody grooves like James.
Super Funk – Vern Blair Debate
Super rare, super funky, “Super Funk”. Vern Blair Debate, a somewhat underground legend, delivered this explosive track in the 70s. It’s packed with sharp brass, dirty basslines, and a rhythm that could only come from the era’s grittiest funk. It may not have topped the charts, but it definitely tops the funk-o-meter. Sometimes, the best funk comes from the shadows.
Hush – The Getup
“Hush” by The Getup is anything but quiet. This UK-based funk group packs a punch, and their 2014 release of this single proves they mean business. With a raw, live-band sound, “Hush” serves as a testament to the pure joy of old-school funk. These guys bring the heat with roaring brass and killer drum breaks. Listening to this track feels like being transported back to a 70s funk club, where the groove is all that matters.
Boogie Man – Capri
Capri’s “Boogie Man” from their album “Boogie Man” (2012) is a hidden gem of the funk world. The New Zealand band knows how to layer rhythms, creating a deep, toe-tapping beat that’s hard to resist. Funk purists will appreciate the nods to classic 70s funk while newcomers will love the catchy hooks and fresh production. It’s the kind of track that stays in your head long after the music stops.
Takedown – Salt Popcorn Remix – The Herbaliser
From the 2005 album “Take London”, The Herbaliser’s “Takedown – Salt Popcorn Remix” is a funky, hip-hop-infused masterpiece. This London-based duo, known for blending jazz, funk, and hip-hop, brings an eclectic twist with their remixes. The track grooves with heavy basslines, tight horns, and an irresistible beat. It’s impossible not to get hooked. The Herbaliser are true pioneers of funk-meets-hip-hop, and this track is a perfect example of their unmatched creativity.
Working Woman – Gizelle Smith, The Mighty Mocambos
Gizelle Smith’s fierce vocals take center stage in “Working Woman,” a powerhouse of a track from her 2018 album “Ruthless Day“. Teaming up with The Mighty Mocambos, this funk-driven anthem celebrates strength, resilience, and unapologetic femininity. The horns blaze, the groove is tight, and Gizelle’s voice commands attention. It’s a modern soul gem with a vintage heart, reminding us all what it means to stand tall and take charge.
Push It Up (feat. Kylie Auldist) – Cookin’ On 3 Burners
Australia’s finest funk export, Cookin’ On 3 Burners, knows how to bring the heat. “Push It Up” from the 2014 album “Blind Bet” features the soul-drenched vocals of Kylie Auldist. The tight instrumentation, combined with Kylie’s powerhouse voice, creates a funky, feel-good anthem that just screams energy. Cookin’ On 3 Burners mixes raw, old-school funk with modern production flair, and this track is the perfect example of that fusion.
Don’t Touch, Just Watch Me – Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro
With a name as wild as their sound, Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro delivers a potent brew of funk with “Don’t Touch, Just Watch Me.” This Japanese funk band brings their 2009 album “Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro II” to life with this high-energy track. Their grooves are fierce, their brass section sharp, and their rhythms unapologetically bold. It’s hard to imagine a more fitting band to breathe new life into the global funk scene.
Feel It in Your Soul – Randa, The Soul Kingdom
Feel the groove and the warmth with Randa & The Soul Kingdom‘s “Feel It in Your Soul” from their self-titled 2009 album. This Perth-based group channels the golden era of 70s funk, and Randa’s soulful voice adds a timeless quality. The rhythms are tight, and the message is clear: music should move you, body and soul. If you’re searching for a track that evokes pure emotion, this is it.
Soul Saviour Stew – Reverend Cleatus & The Soul Saviours
Taking us to the deep, gritty side of funk, Reverend Cleatus & The Soul Saviours serve up a deliciously dark groove in “Soul Saviour Stew.” Released in 2009, the track is a heady mix of retro funk with a touch of bluesy grit. It’s a slow burn, but the raw, deep basslines and haunting horns leave a lasting impression. Reverend Cleatus isn’t just preaching funk; he’s saving souls one beat at a time.
We Just Want to Play for You – Fat Larry’s Band
Closing off this playlist with a smooth yet funky groove, Fat Larry’s Band delivers “We Just Want to Play for You.” Taken from their 1979 album “Lookin’ for Love”, this track is all about feel-good rhythms, buttery vocals, and pure musical joy. Fat Larry’s Band is known for their fusion of funk, R&B, and soul, and this track is a testament to their ability to make you feel like they’re playing just for you.
The Playlist
- POW – Larry Graham, Graham Central Station
- Kool & The Gang – Kool & The Gang
- Hangin’ On – Brainstorm
- Get Yourself Together – The Soul Snatchers
- Shake and Hip Drop – The Sound Stylistics
- Space Jogging – Misha Panfilov
- Get On The Good Foot (Pt.1 & 2) – James Brown
- Super Funk – Vern Blair Debate
- Hush – The Getup
- Boogie Man – Capri
- Takedown – Salt Popcorn Remix – The Herbaliser
- Working Woman – Gizelle Smith, The Mighty Mocambos
- Push It Up (feat. Kylie Auldist) – Cookin’ On 3 Burners
- Don’t Touch, Just Watch Me – Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro
- Feel It in Your Soul – Randa, The Soul Kingdom
- Soul Saviour Stew – Reverend Cleatus & The Soul Saviours
- We Just Want to Play for You – Fat Larry’s Band
Superfast infectious grooves. by Funkologie on Mixcloud