Smile it’s Monday! This time, it’s a real Funky Monday with an all funk playlist…

> 在日ファンク (Zainichi Funk)

At first listen, it is impossible not to make the connection with the Godfather of Soul ; I’ll let you be the judge of that…

He’s the spitting image of James Brown, isn’t he?!

Except he’s japanese.
Except he doesn’t really dance the same (read : not as good).
Except he has less hairspray in his hair (but gel is just as nice).
Except he… doesn’t have as much hair… actually.

Personally, I regret this perfect stylistic resemblance, whether in the voice timbre or in the gimmicks (the “Ha!” or the “Hit Me!”). Bakudan Kowai* however remains a nice catchy bomb that will bring cheerfulness on the beginning of the week 🙂

Zainichi Funk / Bakudan Kowai (*can translate into “a bomb, I’m scared”)

> Osaka Monaurail

Let’s keep on with the “Made In James Brown”, by featuring the group Osaka Monaurail (small introduction here).

Some good ol’ funk :). The similarity with the JB’s is not as striking as with Zainichi Funk and that’s good news.

Osaka Monaurail / Quick Sand

> ザ・たこさん (ZA.TAKOSAN)

How to describe without seeming condescending? Hmm… Let’s say that Za Takosan is one of the many japanese artists who don’t “look right for the job” but yet possess style and talent to make the greatests go pale.

Za Takosan / Nice Middle no Têma

> Emi Tawata

The track Eternity from the young artist Emi Tawata, has been living in my Ipod for more than 2 years now. A sweet sound, perfect for the season (perfect for any season, if I may say so…)

For those interested, the singer has taken a more pop direction in recent years.

Emi Tawata / Eternity

> CERO

I’ve discovered them with the title Yellow Magus, a blend of funk, soul and pop. My first reaction was to think the singer’s voice completely clashes with his straight A’s student look. Matter of fact, I’ll let you discover the voice in question in the following video :

CERO / Mountain Mountain

That’s it for today, have a nice Monday!

Chrys Prolls