The first impression of “Give Me A Groove,” the title track that opens the recently-released E.P. by Charlie Funk, is that the music rolls back the years. The beat on the first track is reminiscent of classic funky grooves from the 1970s and early 1980s.
But there’s more to the record than this. “Sexy Cutie,” the lead single, brings in r&b influences, while retaining a funky undercurrent with guitar and horn parts. A remix which picks up the pace is included as the EP’s final track.
A slight edge to the lyrics comes across in “It’s Not A Joke,” although this is balanced out by a flowing trumpet solo. The horn arrangements are by Mac Gollehon, who boasts previous collaborations with David Bowie and Simply Red.
“lunch in Babylon” stands out with its distorted guitar part played by Mike “Kidd Funkadelic” Hampton and a vocal appearance by Marla Mase. It takes the form of a dialogue between a customer and waitress about the world’s problems and the need to do something about it.
There’s even time on the E.P. for a re-working of the classic “It’s Not Unusual.”
The only downside is that the E.P. is over too soon. Hopefully there’s more to come from Charlie Funk.
The album was produced in collaboration with True Groove Records. Keep up to date with them at their website or on Twitter, or join Charlie Funk on Facebook.