Satirifunk
Drumparade, 2020
8/10
New Orleans has historically never been short on soulful and rhythmic sounds, and we can certainly put Junko Beat on that registry and add experimental to the long list of ideas reeled in by the group founder, drummer/composer Chris Lacinak.
“Control” gets the album off to a spacey, funk display of soulfulness and plenty of adventurous song craft before the bright brass and soothing strings of the classically tinted “After Burn”. “Words” then brings the listen into reggae territory with excellent use of organs as Jane Brody’s strong vocals guide the album highlight.
The back half of the listen is equally unpredictable, with the hazy, prog-rock friendly “Voyage To Gold And Green”, as well as the percussive and pedal steel strong, Indian nods of “Lotus Garden”. “Land Of Milk And Honey” finishes off the listen with Eastern ideas amid the dreamy songwriting that packs grooves in spades.
An extremely progressive funk affair, Junko Beat recruits influences from across the globe, as their unclassifiable formula that’s self-described as ‘funky dance jamtronic’ unites New Orleans with West African sensibilities on this sophomore album that’s as captivating as it is cultured.
Travels well with: Solid Bronze- The Fruit Basket; Cúnao- Rayuela