The Funk Influence
With their 2016 track "Flow with It (You Got Me Feeling Like)," St. Paul & The Broken Bones deliver a vibrant homage to 70s funk, showcasing an instrumentation that feels both nostalgic and fresh. The song is a standout from their album, Sea of Noise, which has been praised for its blend of soul, rock, and rhythm & blues. The band's frontman, Paul Janeway, channels the energy of funk legends while crafting a sound that's undeniably their own.
Instrumentation at Work
The instrumentation in "Flow with It" is a masterclass in how to weave together various elements to create a cohesive sound. The bold brass sections—think punchy trumpets and smooth saxophones—evoke the spirit of classic funk bands like Earth, Wind & Fire. This sonic approach invites listeners to move, a testament to the infectious nature of the groove.
"You never close your eyes anymore when I kiss your lips"
Janeway's opening line feels like a direct nod to the lyrical depth of funk classics. Just as the music draws from the past, the lyrics remind us of the emotional weight that accompanies love and longing. The combination of catchy hooks and soul-laden phrases creates a sense of urgency, reminding us that while the sound is retro, the feelings are timeless.
Connecting to the Past
It's impossible to ignore how "Flow with It" aligns with the ethos of 70s funk, where instrumentation was just as vital as the vocals. The rhythmic guitar riffs, combined with an upbeat bassline, set a foundation that feels reminiscent of the genre's heyday. St. Paul & The Broken Bones manage to capture that essence without resorting to mere imitation, instead crafting a sound that's both an homage and a progression.
Did you know? The song's catchy melody and groove have drawn comparisons to classic tracks by funk icons, showcasing the band's deep-rooted influences.
A Modern Take on Funk
While many contemporary artists attempt to recreate the funk sound, few do it with the authenticity that St. Paul & The Broken Bones achieve. Their ability to infuse modern sensibilities into a vintage style gives them a unique place in today’s music scene. The band’s willingness to embrace the complexity of funk while simplifying its presentation makes their music accessible yet rich.
The production, led by the band themselves, captures an organic vibe. The live feel of the track harkens back to the era of vinyl records, where every note and nuance was captured with care. This attention to detail is what sets "Flow with It" apart in a landscape often dominated by digital polish.
The Legacy of Funk
St. Paul & The Broken Bones aren’t just reviving funk; they are carving out a space for it in modern music. With tracks like "Flow with It," they invite both new listeners and seasoned fans to appreciate the genre's roots. The soulful instrumentation and engaging lyrics create a bridge between generations, reminding us why funk remains a vital part of the musical conversation.
As we groove to the rhythms of "Flow with It," it's clear that St. Paul & The Broken Bones are not just keeping the funk alive—they are redefining it for a new era.