When you mix influences like John Mayer, Ray Charles, The Grateful Dead, Aretha Franklin, The Beatles and The Talking Heads, the four-piece funk funk band, Formula 5, is born.
After their latest release, Edging on Catastrophe, Formula 5 is still on the rise. The 13-track album is reminiscent of the band’s roots and influences of upstate New York, ranging from funk and jazz to electronica and blues.
The opening track, “Perch Above the Earth,” misleads listeners with scifi effects that teleport to a driving bass-line and upbeat drums. The band transitions from these feet-stomping grooves to soothing interludes with ambient guitar and piano. Before you can catch them, the band snaps back in the pocket with a screaming guitar solo.
After eight minutes of groovy bliss, the band molds into a classic sounding funk in “Earthbound Tim.” The track features Jeff Nania (saxophone) and Bryan Brundige (trombone); both beautifully compliment the open keys, vocal harmonies and rhythmic melody.
With each track, Formula 5 proves to be something different. Lengthy jams to short spurts, like “Timmy’s Dream,” prove that Edging on Catastrophe will not disappoint.
Tunes like “The Fall” show that Formula 5 can do it all. They combine heavy bass with screaming guitar in perfect balance. Simultaneously, paired vocals and open instrument breaks relaxes listeners with a soothing edge.
The quartet’s organic spin on funk music lures listeners of all genres and leaves them dancing center stage.
It is no wonder Formula 5 has shared the stage with artists such as Twiddle, The Heavy Pets and Goosepimp Orchestra. In addition, Formula 5 has played everywhere from Autamation Indoor Music Festival (Lake George) to Catskill Chill, The Big Up and Strange Creek.
Songs from the album are sprinkled throughout Formula 5’s live shows archive, where the band has streamed full setlist for an unfiltered listening experience. Check out their tunes below: