It would be harsh and erroneous to say that “Junk Food,” the latest EP from the Columbus-based band, Chuck’s Junk, is musical garbage. Although the four song collection is far from gold, the group’s fresh new style of funk is a rare and valuable gem waiting to be polished.
While funk makes up the core of the Chuck’s Junk sound, the 2-year-old band effectively and creatively mixes many musical styles, denying it the categorical confinement associated with modern popular music. In short, Chuck’s Junk is a smorgasbord of many elements.
The album opens with a sound sure to charm even the nastiest of snakes from their resting places. Loosely based on traditional Indian music with a hint of jazz, the title track abruptly shifts gears to a more alternative edge before settling with a harder hip-hop feel reminiscent of Outkast.
The song “Junk Food” is structured around the simple yet unique guitar work of band members Felonious Junk (Bill Patterson Jr.) and his son B-iLL (Bill Patterson III). Although the guitar presence is too dominant by the third verse, the industrial-flavored riffs and solid slide-guitar tones should not be ignored.
Following “Junk Food” is the jazzy “Naniyara,” which derives its name from a Zen Buddhist term meaning to be moved by an unknown force or thing. “Naniyara” is the perfect showcase for vocalist Napoleonstevewil (Napoleon Stevewill) who surprisingly sounds a bit like R. Kelly and popular German hip-hop artist, Xavier Naidoo.
With “Naniyara” and “Confessions,” the members of Chuck’s Junk prove that, although they are budding songwriters, they are accomplished arrangers. Each tune provides a series of unexpected transitions and short instrumental breaks similar to veteran jazz musician Dave Brubeck and the modern Derek Trucks Band.
While he’s no Bootsy Collins, bassist JoePjunk (Joe Patterson) doesn’t fail to impress on the funky “Confessions.” Reminiscent of decent elevator music with a hint of hip-hop, JoePjunk lays down a solid and structured groove.
Rounding out the group’s effort is the soulful “Money Blue.” While the dominating harmonies may need a tweak or two, the aching trumpet and saxophone arrangement gives the song a slight underground jazz flavor common during the Harlem Renaissance.
Ultimately, “Junk Food” proves that, although Chuck’s Junk is still honing its skills at becoming a reputable band on the local music scene, the future may have a few perks in store. While the comparison cannot be justified, this album should be treated like a Bob Dylan record – it may take a couple of spins to fully understand. After that, it just grows on you.
