Joyfunk Is Dead, the latest release from Tuscaloosa, AL prog-rockers CBDB, is an interesting and impressive blend of multiple genres creating a stain-glass menagerie of all things happy. The sextet unites technical riffs, four-to-the-floor rapid firing beats, smooth jazz, and tons of funk amongst a medley of styles touched upon in unique unison.
The ten-track release hits the gates running with “Stuffed Avocados,” the opening title. You’re welcomed to the Joyfunk world of blaring horns, aggressive finger work, electronica hooks, and the distinctive pitch of lead singer Cy Simonton, whose voice can be best described as a combination of Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, with a cross of Train and Milky Chance.
Within each composition, throughout each orchestrated segment, you careen through winding keyboards dueling with Pantera-meets-Tool guitar styling. You’re casually nodding your head and swaying your body to the velvety jazz when you take off again to a fusion of early 90’s Claptonesuqe guitar-work intertwined with drumming rim shots.
Relating CBDB’s sound to anyone, Umphrey’s McGee immediately comes to mind. The band’s strength relies on their ability to technically navigate various builds and drops, with each valley getting its own fill of the band.
First there’s bass, then sax, and finally a finish with soft keys. Next you have full percussion: congos, bongos, etc; and here comes the wails of aggressive metal thrashing guitar. CBDB moves through Joyfunk Is Dead, blending funk with hints of southern flavor mashing Gov’t Mule and Widespread Panic, all with that M Jackson voice over.
It’s easy to see how this music will translate well in a live setting. There’s plenty of room in these orchestrated movements for song play, jamming, segues, and more. It’s easy and fun to dance to because there’s an innate pattern to it. You can anticipate the next movement and swing accordingly.
To say that this is a prog-rock band wouldn’t justify the art that they’re creating. They’re swing, rapid firing high hat beats, followed with the technical pickings and finger work, climaxing with full band, heartfelt deep baritone grand piano and soul. The production is crisp and clear, the vocals supreme, and the energy high. These guys are clearly talented and are enjoying what they are doing. What happens next remains joyfully ambiguous. As they slay through the southeast, and perfect their already mature sound, they give us another drop to eagerly await.