The New Mastersounds

The New Mastersounds: Bringing the Funk Back, One Groove at a Time

The New Mastersounds are a British band from Leeds, England, known for their infectious blend of funk, soul, and jazz, a style they often refer to as “modern soul“. Since their formation in 1997, the band has built a loyal following with their energetic live performances and their knack for crafting original music that feels both familiar and fresh.

Groove Masters:

Their sound is rooted in classic funk and soul, with influences ranging from James Brown and Sly Stone to contemporary artists like D’Angelo and Erykah Badu. The band features a tight rhythm section, a soulful horn section, and the charismatic vocals of Simon “The Mighty” Johnson, whose voice carries the spirit of classic soul singers.

Top Tracks:

While their discography boasts a vast collection of original material, some of their most popular tunes include:

• “Time To Move On”: A classic funk jam with a catchy hook and a driving beat.
• “Love Is In The Air”: A soulful ballad with a catchy melody and Johnson’s smooth vocals.
• “Back To The Groove”: A high-energy track showcasing the band’s instrumental prowess and their signature funky groove.
• “Got To Get It Right”: A funk-infused anthem with a powerful message of self-determination.
• “Keep The Groove Alive”: A vibrant, upbeat track that embodies the band’s commitment to keeping funk music alive.

Connections and Collaborations:

The New Mastersounds have shared stages and recording sessions with a diverse array of artists, including:

• The late great Sharon Jones: Their collaborations on Jones’ albums resulted in some of her most soulful and funky tracks.
• The legendary Charles Bradley: The band’s backing band for Bradley’s live performances and recordings helped propel him to international acclaim.
• Other renowned artists: They’ve also collaborated with artists like Lee Fields, Mayer Hawthorne, and even hip-hop legend, Ghostface Killah.

Similar Soulful Sounds:

For fans seeking a similar sonic experience, some artists worth exploring include:

• The Meters: New Orleans funk pioneers whose influence is evident in The New Mastersounds’ sound.
• Lettuce: An American funk band known for their high-energy live shows and their blend of jazz, funk, and rock.
• The Dap-Kings: A Brooklyn-based band known for their retro soul sound and their work with Sharon Jones.
• Soulive: An instrumental funk trio known for their improvisational skills and their smooth, soulful grooves.

The New Mastersounds’ music is a testament to the enduring power of funk and soul. With their infectious grooves, soulful vocals, and vibrant stage presence, they continue to spread the joy of funk music to audiences worldwide. So put on your dancing shoes, crank up the volume, and let The New Mastersounds take you back to the groove!