Encompassing celebrated artists such as George Clinton, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Alfred Pee Wee Elis and many more, star-studded funk collective, Smudge All Stars have released their debut single ‘Our Lives’ via Pegdoll Records.
Smudge All Stars is Richie Stevens' audio intelligence collective. Richie is the son of the late John Stevens, a pioneer of British free jazz, and a gifted drummer, percussionist and producer in his own right. His talents have found him in constant demand, working with everyone from Horace Andy and Joss Stone to Boy George and Damon Albarn. Now, with Smudge All Stars, Richie leads a funk/soul ensemble that draws on his friendships with many leading black British, Jamaican and US musicians. Smudge All Stars is Richie’s musical vision writ large. This is a party album in the old school P-funk tradition, all instrumentation is recorded live with Stevens calling on the original Horny Horns Fred Wesley and Peewee Ellis to help build a fat brass groove for the authentic P-Funk vibe and George Clinton vocals for the ultimate seal of funk approval. The collective’s debut single, ‘Our Lives’ marries funk and reggae’s vintage relationship and is a ray of sunshine in the soft heart of the album. Richie Stevens:
“Reggae has a big place in our hearts by virtue of the cultural history in the UK. It was common for funk bands to incorporate reggae-flavoured music into their work, so we thought we would keep up the tradition. Lyrics written by reggae musicians during the 60s and 70s were ahead of their time, so this track is a continuation of a golden generation.”
‘Our Lives’ is a revivalist anthem. Showcasing instrumentation from Dennis Bovell and vocals from the legendary Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry and Leftfield/Dreadzone collaborator Earl Sixteen, the track is a rallying cry to the distinctive sound of Jamaica. ‘Our Lives’ is the first track from Smudge All Stars upcoming debut album – coming later this year. The album spans a deep multitude of genres, all compiling into one neatly folded funk record. Other artists featured include: Pee Wee Ellis, Camelle Hinds, Charlotte Kelly, Dennis Bovell, DJ D-zire (Jamiroquai’s DJ) Dr Mouthquake, Earl Sixteen, Fred Wesley, George Clinton, James Gardiner Bateman, JC 001, Lee ‘Scratch’ Perry, Mary Pearce, Mitt Gamon, Niara Scarlett and Omar.
Listen to 'Our Lives' HERE Instagram: @smudgeallstars
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