Sophistafunk w/s/g Amongst The Monks @ The Upstairs Ithaca

Friday, April 8, 2022 - 9:30pm

Alt

“The unstoppable funk hip hop dance party that is Sophistafunk.”

From underground shows to international festivals, Sophistafunk is one of the most unforgettable and authentic live music acts you will ever see. The product of three multi-talented musicians, their sound and style is both powerful and captivating. Plus, on any given night they seamlessly integrate frequent guests and collaborators, so you never know what’s coming next!!

Sophistafunk has been described as “Rage Against the Machine meets The Roots, dipped in P-funk.” They’ve also become widely accepted on the jamband and festival circuit, performing multiple sets at Electric Forest and Camp Bisco (USA), as well as BoomTown and Shambala (UK), to name a few. They’re well known from New York to New Orleans, and have particularly strong followings in California, Colorado, Michigan, New England, and the Great Northwest, among others.

After celebrity chef Guy Fieri became a fan of the band, he invited them to perform at many of his events and private parties around the country, including at the Super Bowl in Tempe AZ. Sophistafunk even appeared twice on his TV show “Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives.” They were also featured as the house band for four episodes of “Guy’s Grocery Games” and in 2020 premiered a music video on Food Network’s “Triple D: Takeout Edition.”

The band is rooted in their undeniable musical prowess, intoxicating beats, and mind-bending flows. Keyboardist Adam Gold is known for his heavy synth baselines and funky vocals. He plays four vintage instruments at the same time, even while beatboxing! Drummer and singer Emanuel Washington combines neo-soul with deep house, reggae, and countless other genres. Frontman / emcee Jack Brown evokes comparisons from Mac Miller to Michael Frantí, but his lyrical skill and conscious vibes are truly one of a kind. The band also features musical guests, ranging from brass instruments to guitars, turntablists, female singers, & more.

Sophistafunk is truly one of the most exhilarating and fulfilling live music experiences in the world, and their inspiring message needs to be heard now more than ever. They blend styles as a broader analogy for people coming together, which is why their brand of funky positivity has been known to uplift even the most grizzled and skeptical audiences. For years, this band has been unafraid to push boundaries and be pioneers within the music community. Sophistafunk will continue to evolve as a soundtrack for the next generation of free thought and musical expression. Catch a show, and join the party!

Amongst The Monks is a three piece funk rock trio who formed in Upstate New York. They have been performing their music on stages of all sizes at various clubs, festivals, and theaters throughout the Northeast US since 2013. The band has three full length albums under their belt and an arsenal of songs that span multiple genres. They released their third album 'Infinite Alternate' at the beginning in 2020 which set the course for a new and evolved sound with a heavier focus on instrumental prowess and songs that make you either dance against your own will or get lost in deep thought and reflection. One thing is for certain; Amongst The Monks will give you an impressionable and unique musical experience!