Funk You brings the noise to Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts this Friday, May 7, when the Augusta, GA band celebrates a decade of music with local favorite Justin Mintun & The Goodfoot Down.
Presented by Time2Fly Music, this special evening of music is sure to lift up even the most aurally deprived melomaniac when the nine member band takes the stage to bring their unique brand of funk to a music thirsty crowd of Charlotteans.
Funk You released their self-titled debut album in 2011. On April 9th, a 10th Anniversary Edition of the album was released, thrilling longtime fans and putting on full display the evolution of the band. But this isn’t just a remastering of the original, this is a complete re-recording of the album now including a three-piece horn section that was added to the full-time lineup in 2018.
Originally a six piece band, the members grew up together in Augusta and their deeply rooted bonds make the band more of a family than just a troupe of touring musicians. When asked to describe the vibe at one of their shows, manager Allen Roper simply described it as a “room full of love, jams and overall celebration.”
For a band whose bio states that the band is “motivated by a love of live performance” the past year with COVID restrictions and lack of touring could have easily taken its toll; but that’s precisely what the band did NOT do.
“It’s been nice to take a step back and become rejuvenated. Taking some time off allows for new influences and personal practice. We’ve spent a lot of time recording older material and writing new material,” said lead singer Gavin Hamilton, putting a positive touch on what was a tough year for everyone — especially musicians.
As with most artists the band took part in a half-dozen or so virtual concerts and festivals. They also put out a four part YouTube series of videos called The Funky Bunch playing off of a Brady Bunch theme and displaying the members’ character and personality in a fun and unique way. The fun series of videos features the band playing originals, covers, and even having special guest musicians sit in on the jams.
With most of their live performances having taken place online in front of no fans, the band is happy to get back to touring, and the fans are showing up to support them; buying up all the tickets for shows in cities like Savannah and Asheville.
“We’ve been easing back into things as places and venues have been opening back up. The small batch of Spring tour dates have been great,” said Mark Dykes, the band’s bass player and vocalist.
Friday’s show at Heist Brewing’s Woodward Avenue location will be a bit of a homecoming for the band who frequently come through Charlotte and have built a solid fan base who are sure to show up in droves to hear the band’s sweet tunes fill the Queen City air.
“Charlotte has always been like a mini Atlanta for us. We’ve always had some family and great friends there so it’s refreshing to be able to get back there after all this time off,” said drummer and percussionist Will Clark.
Time2Fly Presents:
Funk You with special guest Justin Mintun & Goodfoot Down at Heist Brewery and Barrel Arts
All Ages | $15 ADV / $20 DOS
Doors: 6:00PM
Show: 7:00PM
Tickets: Purchase
This is a reduced capacity, socially distanced event. Masks are to be worn at all times when you are not at your table or designated standing area.