FUNK isn’t something you’d normally associate with the tranquil town of Holmfirth.
But that’s all about to change this weekend when the Picturedrome launches its first Festival of Funk.
The town, better known for its annual Festival of Folk, will be marching to a funkier beat from Friday when internationally-renowned jazz musician Dennis ‘Badbone’ Rollins plays the former cinema.
He’ll be followed by a DJ set from former Red Dwarf and Coronation Street actor and DJ of the BBC Radio 6 Funk and Soul Show Craig Charles.
Headlining on Saturday will be Japan’s funkiest band, the nine-piece funk orchestra Osaka Monaurail.
And on Sunday there’ll be some of Britain’s funkiest upcoming bands, including TC Funky Nuts and Huggy.
The Picturedrome, formerly the Valley Cinema, was taken over by Peter and Rachel Carr in 2003.
Peter said: “Music played a big part in my upbringing which is what drove me to buy the Picturedrome in the first place.
“I’ve always had a real passion for the funk genre, so this is a dream come true to be able to organise a festival showcasing the very best the funk world has to offer.
“We’ve got musicians flying in from around the world as well as more local talent which promises to make it a memorable three days.
“The Festival of Funk is a first for Holmfirth, which already has musical roots thanks to its well-established folk festival.
“Through the Festival of Funk we’re hoping to appeal to people of all ages who appreciate good music, a great atmosphere and most of all – a funky beat.”
Funk grew out of the American soul scene of the 1960s.
Funk – a slang word for ‘stink’ – stripped down the arrangements and tightened the rhythms for a rawer, more dynamic sound.
The sound is characterised by chunky drum beats and bass riffs setting the groove while scratchy guitars and blaring horns colour the sonic picture and accentuate the dynamics.
‘Godfather of Soul’ James Brown is generally credited as the inventor of funk.
Classic funk artists include Funkadelic, Sly and Family Stone, The Average White Band, Stevie Wonder, Chic and later Prince and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
