Plant Life seem to be the new funk all-stars fresh on the scene from L.A. Having received credible acclaim from excellent artists like Mos Def, Slum Village, Danger Mouse and respected DJ Giles Peterson, who even stated “Step aside Outkast we have Plant Life people”. It’s clear that we have new heavyweight funk contenders back in the mix who are showing people how to truly free that mind.

Parliament would definitely be a good starting point of influences from this band. With reference to George Clinton and other great artists like Prince, Sly and the Family Stone, Jimi Hendrix on this single ‘The Last Song’ from their new album ‘On The Return Of Jack Splash’, it shows Plant Life

have done the right research. This track has serious synth sounds to give that deep P-Funk sound and genuine crisp infectious beats to maintain a more modern hip hop feel. There's other funk influences here from 80’s electric boogaloo to a definite respect for what Outkast do. Jack Splash, lead vocalist, does remind me of Andre 3000 with that extrovert delivery and style however he’s not rapping, he’s singing like a clone of Dr Funkinstein. The best funk lyrics to me have a deeper meaning hidden by a feel good vibe to lessen the seriousness of life. This track has that desire to get you dancing but looking underneath the surface we see a conscience that has won them the respect of other artists.

It’s evident with ‘The Last Song’ that Plant Life deserves the hype they’re getting. They have refined and modernised funk, that is perfectly placed for this time, with all the attitude and grit to appeal to a wide audience. This single is great value as well with loads of remixes suitable for DJ’s at different nights from house to soul. I particularly liked the Chicken Lips Remix that has a very progressive sound and we get a B-side with ‘U Can Have It All’ that shows how smooth Plant Life can be. Expect big things from this bunch.

Tareck Ghoneim

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