Friday, February 19, 2016

Band Review: Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings


This is a band that grooves.

I first learned about them because Sharon Jones came up in a discussion about vocalists. Jones was known as a singer before The Dap-Kings formed, but their current combination adds horns, bass, and funk. They have an impressive resume if you look at whom they've worked with, but it's probably better to just listen to them and let the band speak for itself.

Much of the music sounds like it could be older. Jones often hits the notes of a 60s girl group - hear her on "Make It Good To Me" - but nothing feels dated, and some of the fun that they have indicates a more modern wit.

Some of my favorite songs were from their 2014 release, Give the People What They Want. "Retreat" and "Stranger to My Happiness" will stick with you, but as you continue listening there is more that you like, and some of the songs just stop you. That was especially true of "How Long Do I Have To Wait For You" in my case, but they also have one of the best holiday albums out there, It's a Holiday Soul Party.

The Youtube channel is for the label, so contains work by many other acts, but it is worth seeking out The Dap-Kings' specific videos. Their regular videos give you a sense of what being in the same room with the band would be like, but they also have some animated videos that are inventive and ingenious. Check out videos for "Retreat", "8 Days of Hannukah)", and "Ain't No Chimneys in the Projects".

For a good time, check out Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings.




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