Where Do We Go From Here
The Funk Garage, 2021
9/10
Listen to Where Do We Go From Here
The New Orleans funk rockers Dumpstaphunk return here with their first album in 7 years, and they make the wait worth it as power and politics are packed into 11 tracks of diverse and memorable songwriting that sounds like it could have been penned in any decade since the ‘70s.
“United Nations Stomp” starts the listen and brings Marcus King’s expertise to the busy, energetic blues rocker that soars loudly with much soul in its anthemic approach, and “Make It After All” follows with plenty of rhythm amid the bouncy spirit that benefits from intricate slap bass work and subtle, effective keys.
In the middle, the title track emits plenty of bright horns in the funk friendly and organ filled climate, while “Itchy Boo” displays 6 minutes of instrumental prowess that’s dynamic, lively and not short of grooves, too. “Do You”, another extraordinary track, then dances playfully with grit, melody and incredible singing you won’t forget anytime soon.
Residing near the end, the guitar fueled “Sounds” enters thick rock territory as crashing drums and firm vocals align with some prog-rock ideas, and “Justice 2020” exits the listen with help from Chali 2na and Trombone Shorty as racial injustice is examined via Dumpstaphunk’s inimitable fusion approach.
This 4th album from the veteran outfit comes with much depth both musically and lyrically, as Dumpstaphunk mesh blues, rock, funk, R&B and old school flavor with precision and playfulness on this career highlight effort.
Travels well with: Pimps Of Joytime- Jukestone Paradise; Diplomats Of Solid Sound- A Higher Place