Don’t miss Knuf Funk's encore performance at the Mex Pub on Feb. 23.
Knuf Funk is an upbeat dance band that promises a good time with non-stop grooves. Their beats range from pure funk as it was laid down by the masters Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, and Parliament/Funkadelic to straight-up danceable ska rhythms. Also influenced by bands such as Chicago, Knuf Funk incorporates rock sound into the mix to produce a unique experience. With an ultra-tight rhythm section and powerhouse horns, they are pumped to deliver a memorable and danceable night.
Knuf Funk is in the studio recording their first full length album, due for release later this year. The band features music students completing their final year of the Bachelor of Music at Vancouver Island University, they are a regular in the Nanaimo club scene.
Troy Lucas is the band's woodwind player. Currently on the tenor and baritone saxophones, he is an aspiring composer originally from the Comox Valley.
When asked about returning to the Valley, he stated, “Performing is something that has always been a great passion of mine. With theatre experiences with local theatre groups such as Courtenay Little Theatre and Rainbow Youth Theatre, I developed a passion for performing.
"I was fortunate to receive excellent training from outstanding teachers and directors. I use what they taught me every time I step on the stage to perform.”
Lucas met Carson Fry during high school at G.P. Vanier, they soon formed the band onewaystreet and have continued to develop their music skills over the past six years. Fry is experienced in performing and recording in a variety of settings from military band and classical wind ensembles, to high energy rock, pop and funk, he is a versatile musician who is sure to entertain.
Lucas and Fry are in charge of most of the band repertoire arrangements and original material, they look forward to seeing their friends at the Mex. The band is fronted by the powerhouse vocals of Sydney Needham. Known for her work with District of Soul, Southwick and the Femme Fatales, Sydney also won the Victoria Idol singing competition. The band also features Josh Agar, a trumpet player originally from Fort McMurray, Alta.; Rob Wilkinson on keyboard; Wes Carroll, a studying guitarist, vocalist, and the winner of the 2010 Daryl Marr scholarship though the Victoria Jazz Society; and drummer Phillip Toutant.
Opening for Knuf Funk will be Fat Heather, the creative outlet of Nanaimo musical duo Elizabeth LeBaron and Étienne McGuigan.
Mex Pub doors open at 9 p.m. next Saturday and music starts at 9:30.
— Mex Pub