A southern California transplant by way of Seattle, music has long been the first language of this peculiar personality. Initially inappropriately touched by the boogie that emanated from the now legendary gathering known as Funkmosphere a decade ago; things would never be the same. Mind blowing sounds combined with the otherworldly movements, inspired by said sounds, shed light on a potential possibility not often pondered: to be a dj. Thoughts & visions of synchronized syncopation due to synthesized sounds, a somber soliloquy to those who suffer from synesthesia. Encountering like-minded individuals, funk became the focus but not the final formation of what was to come. Becoming a unit of kindred spirits existing to enamor and enlighten eardrums, these individuals took up a mission. A mission with one overall purpose: to ACTIVATE LA!
1. What’s your favorite tune to cruise at night?
Steve Arrington – “Hump To The Bump” (1985)
A song that I initially scoffed at because it just sounded like the bassist was practicing scales. Then the hook slapped any semblance of disrespect out of me, and I opened my eyes to the truth: this may very well be one of the funkiest songs to be committed to tape. Steve fell into every groove, pocket, and or vibe that the track provided. A synth xylophone solo? Absolutely! The simplicity becomes hypnotizing. The chorus only appears twice, being extended the 2nd time. This creates an addictive listening practice, twice isn’t enough. I need more. Before I know it, I’ve repeated the song 3 or 4 times. Steve knows how to dispense his audio dope. Plus, there’s a guy in the music video with nunchucks, which always garner extra points in my book.
2. What’s your favorite tune to chill?
Masayoshi Takanaka – “Tears of the Sun” (1983)
A guitar virtuoso that slid into boogie, Takanaka struck gold on this b-side. Lamenting over heartbreak, likening his pain to a ‘crying guitar’; you can still feel the sun shining on you through all of his hurt. Crashing waves and seagulls are rightfully part of the arrangement. A nice contrast of somber lyrics with a buoyant backing makes for an excellent composition. The unlikely combination makes me feel Takanaka took Amuzement Parks suggestion to ‘groove your blues away’ to heart. An infectious mix of melancholy madness.
3.What’s your favorite tune for a romantic evening?
Joyce Kennedy – “Looking for Trouble” (1984)
When Leon Sylvers the III is at the helm, you just sit back and enjoy the ride. Joyce’s vocal performance is to the point that it seems effortless. Sets a nice ‘suggestive’ mood.
4. What’s your favorite tune to shake your body down to the ground?
Roubaix – “Ain’t Nobody Better” (1984)
I’m pretty sure the name is pronounced ru-bix, but the uncertainty adds an element of mystery that strangely adds to my fondness of the record. The one and only track by this artist as far as I can see. This is a perfect tune for a grand opening/grand closing: let it be known who and what you are. If you’re never heard from again, your m.o. was doccumented. This feels like more of a mantra than an introduction. He’s trying to convince himself & his love interest that he is the ONE. The unbreakable boogie that drives the track will have the listener feel like the #1 choice themselves. Several involuntary collar pops may take place while listening to this one. The one and only track by this artist as far as I can see (Ruben Fairfax has writing credits on multiple Al Green albums, but this appears to be his only release as an artist).
5. What’s the tune that gives you instant nostalgia?
Zalmac – “I Get Down” (1982)
An ’07 funkmosphere staple. Hearing this always transports me back to that small space with the red glow. Great memories. Magic by Side-on is a close runner up.
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