07 October 2007 (gig)
08 October 2007
An Irish white kids’ groovin-funk-rapping-pop-guitar act, who on first impression look like The Commitments for the Hip Hop generation, sounds more like a punch line than a band description. Yet here before us, supporting Alabama 3, are the sleazy Dublin funksters, Republic of Loose.
The aesthetics may be all wrong yet the sound, astonishingly, somehow is oh so right.
Scruffy lead singer, Mick Pyro’s voice fluctuates between a grittier sounding Pharrell Williams on 'Break,' to Prince on their funky current single 'Come Back Girl.'
The rhythm section made up of Benjamin Loose on bass, Coz Noleon on drums / percussion and Barnes also drums / percussion really bring to life the rootsy sound. There are seven core members in all on stage tonight with help from two backing singers.
Their mix of smooth grooves, great harmonies and pop beats sounds more Philly soul than streets of Dublin. Lyrically, there is a bit of a comedy factor, but not so much that it distracts from the serious side of the music. Most of the Astoria crowd were quite into it by the end of the set and the band left the stage to huge cheers.
Its unlikely Republic Of Loose will take over the world of funk, as first impressions leave you wondering if they’re Ireland’s answer to Goldie Lookin Chain. Ignore the first impressions and listen to the music. You’ll be glad you did.
