God Made Me Funky

Since 1996, God Made Me Funky have been one of Toronto, ON's top party bands. As is often the case with an outfit that make their rep onstage, they haven't had the easiest time converting their live energy into a studio environment. Welcome To Nu Funktonia is a definite step forward. Spacey synthesizer and hand-clapped-powered opener "Phantastik" is a tight slice of euphoric dance floor candy that epitomizes the celebratory ambience of the album. Guest appearances by the likes of Moka Only and Eternia help turn up the heat, at times, and production work from the likes of Slakah the Beatchild and Beat Mergers helps expand GMMF's sonic palette, but the exceptional rhythm section still dominates. There are some regrettable detours into rock territory, including a dismal remake of Triumph's "On the Line (Lay It)." Despite such misfires, Welcome To Nu Funktonia is an impressive effort destined to get clubs and parties moving this summer.