Menahan Street Band

The Menahan Street Band: A Groove That’s Always in the Pocket

The Menahan Street Band, hailing from Brooklyn, New York, is a collective of seasoned musicians crafting a sound that effortlessly blends funk, soul, and jazz into a potent, groove-laden cocktail. Their music is a sonic tapestry woven with intricate guitar lines, soulful vocals, and tight, driving rhythms.

A Sound Built on Collaboration:

The band, unlike many, doesn’t adhere to a fixed lineup. Instead, it operates as a fluid entity, with core members like Thomas Bartlett (Doveman), Nick Movshon (Antibalas), and Cochemea Gastelum (Charles Bradley) collaborating with an ever-rotating cast of talented musicians. This dynamic approach contributes to the band’s unique sound, as each member brings their individual experience and musicality to the table.

Most Known Tracks:

Their music has graced numerous film and television soundtracks, solidifying their place in the world of popular culture. Their most recognized tracks include:

• “The King Is Dead” – A haunting, soulful ballad that captures the band’s ability to blend raw emotion with infectious grooves.
• “The Devil’s Got A Gun” – A driving, hard-hitting funk number showcasing the band’s mastery of tight, rhythmic interplay.
• “Tell Me Your Dreams” – A sensual, hypnotic track with a distinctly psychedelic vibe.

Similar Artists:

The Menahan Street Band’s sound resonates with fans of other artists who delve into the realms of funk, soul, and jazz. These include:

• Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings: The “Queen of Funk” herself, Sharon Jones, shares a similar raw energy and vintage soul with the Menahan Street Band.
• Antibalas: This Brooklyn-based Afrobeat ensemble shares a similar focus on tight rhythms and politically charged lyrics.
• The Budos Band: This instrumental outfit explores similar funk, soul, and Latin influences, creating a hypnotic soundscape.

Beyond the Music:

The Menahan Street Band has fostered a close-knit community within the Brooklyn music scene, collaborating with and supporting countless artists. They have recorded and performed with notable acts such as:

• Charles Bradley: The “Screaming Soul” legend collaborated with the band on multiple projects.
• The Dap-Kings: Their long-standing relationship with the Dap-Kings solidified their connection to the Brooklyn soul scene.
• Lee Fields: The “Little JB” collaborated with the band on several tracks, showcasing their shared love for soul music.

A Legacy of Groove:

The Menahan Street Band has carved a unique niche in the contemporary music landscape. Their ability to seamlessly blend genres, coupled with their collaborative spirit, has resulted in a captivating sonic experience that continues to enthrall audiences. Their music transcends time, offering a timeless groove that resonates with both nostalgic fans of classic funk and soul and those seeking a fresh, vibrant take on these genres.