It is true that music is universal and you can find good music in every corner and country of the globe. Montreal, Canada band The Brooks is bringing that vintage funk from North of the border.
When think about music coming out of Canada the first city that pops up in most people’s mind is Toronto. Montreal has been a major player in the rise and popularity in funk and soul music genre. The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal has welcomed a host of household names in R&B, soul and funk over the years, none bigger than two Legends of the Festival: The great pianist and singer Ray Charles made six Festival appearances and also had the distinction of giving the first concert in Festival history on Julyi 2, 1980. The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin,
The 8 piece collective band The Brooks specialize in authentic, vintage funk and soul music with live instrumentation. The band includes Maxime Bellavance – Drums, Alexandre Lapointe – Bass, Philippe Look – Guitars & Vocals, Marc Bell – Percussion & Vocals, Alan ‘Funt’ Prater – Vocals & Trombone, Dan Thouin – Keyboards & Synths, Sebastien Grenier – Saxophones, and Hichem Khalfa – Trumpet.
The Brooks just released their album Pain & Bliss a few weeks ago. All songs written, arranged and performed live by The Brooks and recorded live at Troublemakers studios, in Montreal Qc, during several late night studio jam session.
This 11 song album hits hard. You can hear the Jame Brown, Ray Charles, and Stevie Wonder influences in their music. My personal favorite track is “Pain & Bliss” . The vocals are so raw and moving, it speaks to you. Picking a favorite song was very tough because all of the tracks are good. The content of the lyrics describe everyday life of trying to make it in the world, love and just funk.
Be sure to support The Brooks as they signed to the independent label Troublemakers Inc. To purchase the album visit iTunes.
Listen to the album “Pain & Bliss” below and lets get Funked up!
