Based out of Tallahassee, Florida, The Funky ‘Taters play music that will “make a dead man dance.” Our unique style of Southern Gulf Coast music is based on jazz and blues, distinguished by a funky second-line beat similar to that of many New Orleans bands.
In addition to a funky bass and inspired lead guitar, the band features strong vocals and four-part harmonies. Two saxophones and two trumpets complete a bright, piercing, and powerful brass sound. The vest frottoir (washboard/rubboard) accents the solid rhythms of the trap drum kit.
Band members include Mike Lewis (founder, vocals, rhythm guitar), Jan DeCosmo (vocals, washboard), Jordan Green (drummer), Chris Seepersaud (vocals, lead guitar), D’Arthur
Godwin (bass), Tom Buchanan and Kwame Storey (trumpet), Bill Landing and Woodson Touloute (sax), and Deanna Miller and Shanice Richards (vocals).
Our first album of originals, Wildlife Refugee, featured Bruce “Sunpie” Barnes on accordion (New Orleans) and Derron Ellies on steel pan (Trinidad). Our second album of originals is in the works now.
We look forward to welcoming The Funky ‘Taters to Word of South!