Well known around Texas for his contributions with the
award-winning group The Effinays and funk-disco up-and-comer Ronnie Heart,
multi-talented instrumentalist, composer, and producer Valenti Funk is
determined to introduce his unparalleled brand of funk-fusion to the masses.
Valenti, whose name is inspired by his Valentine’s Day birthday, has released
newly remastered physical copies of Valenti on his own record label, Clear
Zebra.
The June 7th release date was decided in honor of the
birthday of the late Prince, who Valenti recognizes as a major influence, even
going as far as getting “The Love Symbol” tattooed on his body. Having already
performed alongside industry legends Snoop Dogg (Lion), Grupo Fantasma and
Ozomatli during his time with the Effinays, Valenti Funk shows himself as a
fully-capable one-man rhythm section in his solo-debut, Valenti. Funk’s
techniques (including the ability to play drums and keys at the same time) and
arrangements lay the perfect foundation for the inclusion of equally impressive
guest features. Album features include the likes of Effinays front man Big
Spook, the soulful voice of LaLa Johnson, a dose of introspective lyricism of
Zach Pohl, Kevin Snearley, Keyln Crapp, Aisha Mars, and the hip-hop delivery of
Versatile.
The elegantly titled Valenti was recorded at various studios
around the DFW Metroplex as far back as 2010. Coordinating recording schedules
between juggling touring gigs across the nation induced a slow-but-steady
approach to crafting the finished product. Studios used include Session Work
Studios (Hurst, TX), The Track Studio (Plano, TX) with the bulk of the work
being done by longtime Effinays producer Rev. Rudd at The House of Rudd in
Euless, TX, providing a well-developed chemistry.
The genre-bending album brings something for everyone to
appreciate while gravitating around a consistently funky backbone. “Irving/Bear
Creek, Texas,” an instrumental homage to his hometown sets the tone for the
entire album. “Party Fiesta” delivers go-go music to the spotlight with vocal
support from Effinays bandmate Big Spook. “More Light” gives a smooth walking
bassline to a conscious reggae theme. “Some Mo” combines soul and disco with a
modern club feel composition. “Side to Side” brings a taste of dance-friendly
chillwave, while “Stank” adds a blusey rock edge to the album. Valenti is
capped off with “Chill On the Couch,” a track destined for romantic date-night
playlists, and “Parking Spot,” a shout out to car enthusiasts everywhere that
creates a hip-hop changeup to the album.
With the release of Valenti, Funk steps out from his usual
role of drums and keys into the spotlight as a proficient, well-rounded
composer ready to make an impact on the world. Complex rhythmic play and
soulful melodies shine over the persistent pocket of Valenti Funk. Top-tier
musicianship combined with a little help from his friends should put Valenti’s
arrangements on the radar of vocalists nationwide.
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