Wes Smith: ‘We, the Funky (Vol 1)’

I love it when an album hits my ears and delivers exactly what it promises: the funk on Wes Smith’s ‘We, the Funky (volume 1)’ starts strong from the first notes of the title track.

Smith is a saxist, composer, and producer and this new version of his output as bandleader is glorious. He is clearly an impressive composer and performer, with his own contribution on alto and soprano saxes, flute and alto flute, Rhodes piano, synth programming, mixing and editing. He brings with him experience from performing with soul, jazz and pop legends as illustrious as Stevie Wonder, Booker T. Jones and Poncho Sanchez.

His improvising is as formidable as his composition and he spars musically with an impressive ensemble that each contribute to different tracks: Christopher Bautista (trumpet), Maurice ‘Mobetta’ Brown (trumpet), Michael Cottone (trumpet), Khrystian Foreman (trombone), Justin Kirk (trombone), Erik Hammer (guitar), Adam Hawley (guitar), Sam Barsh (keys), Frank Abraham (bass), Dimitry Goredetsky (bass) and Donald Barrett (drums).

Tracks like Sunrises set the tone with a brass line melody, playful guitar lines and a funky rhythm section. Smith picks up the alto flute (forgive me if I’m wrong and it’s a concert flute) and transports the listener right to the heart of LA and the sun comes out. That Rhodes piano start to Baby Steps establishes the groove for more alto flute and trumpet melodies. When the alto sax rejoins the party on Ventura Penthouse, its sound pierces the rhythm section. I have no idea what HDubHiatus means, but the final track has another new mood, with Smith taking to the soprano sax.

Smith says: “My time in Los Angeles has been good to me. This record is about the sunshine and joy of that experience - and about the relationships that have made my musical journey so special. I’ve travelled a musical career that’s unique, surprising, modern, and entirely my own. I hope this album feels that way too.”

Get hold of some of this formidable funk from Wes Smith on Bandcamp