INTERVIEW: Flow Tribe keeps funk-flowing into the future
Flow Tribe, the funk band out of New Orleans, continues to gain a steady following throughout the United States thanks to the band’s relentless touring. They visit Mexicali Live in Teaneck, N.J., on Thursday, Feb. 11, and The Hall at MP in Brooklyn, N.Y., on Friday, Feb. 12, among many other dates. They also will be a highlight on the first night of this year’s Michael Arnone’s Crawfish Fest in Augusta, N.J., on June 3.
In 2014, they released several songs on EPs that have become popular favorites at concerts. Among them are “Fire on Esplanade,” a reference to a famous avenue in New Orleans, and “Hungry for You,” one that finds audience member and bandmates both dancing. Expect these and other funk-tastic selections at the upcoming concerts.
Flow Tribe features six musicians, playing everything from the horns to the washboard to the drums. KC O’Rorke is the lead singer and trumpeter for the band, and he recently took some time around the Mardi Gras festivities to answer some questions via email for Hollywood Soapbox.
Questions and answers have been slightly edited for style.
What’s on the horizon for Flow Tribe in 2016?
We are in the process of building our own studio in New Orleans. Once it is completed we will begin recording our next full-length album sometime in the spring.
How do you develop a set list for a show?
We generally talk about it ahead of time, but we leave a lot of room for improvisation.
What’s the best part of being part of Flow Tribe?
The chemistry of the band.
What’s the toughest part of being part of Flow Tribe?
Having an unconventional schedule.
Flow Tribe has gained a reputation as a dynamic live band. Do you feel the push and pull between recording and touring?
I think to grow as musicians we have to excel at both live performance and studio recording. With the development of our new studio space, I know we’ll be getting tighter and more productive in the recording process.
What makes New Orleans such a special musical city?
New Orleans welcomes everyone in the mix while retaining its strong cultural heritage. It’s a beautiful scene.
Who are some of your influences?
Allen Toussaint; The Meters; James Brown; Sublime; Earth, Wind & Fire; Willie Nelson; [and] Elvis.
By John Soltes / Publisher / John@HollywoodSoapbox.com
