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After all the work, performances, recordings, concerts, and life experiences shared together since their formation in 1998, Funk Off finally present their sixth album, Things Change. Things have indeed changed and continue to do so; in fact, the band has been taking on more black music and capturing the essence of soul music. For the first time Funk Off hosts two special guest singers and co-authors, namely rising star of American black music Avery*Sunshine on "Dance With Me" and internationally renowned singer, songwriter, and guitarist Raul Midòn on "Deja Vu." They're two tracks on which all the passion, emotion, and power of Funk Off's soul cuts through. To emphasize this creative streak, the sole guest instrument on this album is played by the legendary Fred Wesley, trombonist to James Brown, on "Bill & the Sweet Fairy." With Things Change, Funk Off start a new chapter yet maintain that dynamic, intense energy evident in their live shows. As in their previous works, the notes, the groove, the chemistry and empathy all build up in a unique emotional experience, leading to a collection of musical ideas and creating something wholly unique among these 15 musicians led by Dario Cecchini. There are a number of references that recall the roots of soul: "Inner City Soul" inspired by Marvin Gaye's "Inner City Blues" and "Bill & the Sweet Fairy," dedicated to Bill Withers. The album also includes compositions with linear song structures such as "Soulmates" and "Groovy Day." "Talking Pictures" is a song deeply reminiscent of a ballad/beguine, markedly differing from Funk Off's typical style. "Yin and Yang" is a flute-centered track, traditionally present in each of their albums, while "To Bits" and "The Certain Doubt" have the harder edge of the band's sound. "Things Change" is the song that seems to summarize this album, with a swaggering, relaxed, cheerful groove, but also more introspective than the other tracks. "A Breath of Fresh Air" is an upbeat, swinging march inspired by New Orleans marching bands, acknowledging the band's debt to that tradition.
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