Lettuce, an ingenious funk-hip-hop-jam marvel of a band, is back with the premiere of their Youtube series finale. The six-part series, titled “The Krewe: A Lettuce Documentary Series,” shows the band’s arduous yet dynamic creative process behind the scenes of their new album. This last episode highlights Eric “Benny” Bloom, the band’s Grammy-winning trumpet player and designated class-clown. In the video, Benny talks about his role in the band’s work process as well as his approach to the music’s instrumentation and production. His high-energy personality reflects Lettuce’s genuine brotherhood and the fun-filled creative environment they cultivate in the pursuit of their artistry.
“Every time I play with Lettuce, I get the chance to rewrite my life story through music,” Benny shares exclusively to Hip-HopVibe.com. “Check out this inside look into my method of madness!”
[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAG-rA9_jTU&w=560&h=315]
Lettuce’s first-rate music releases have made waves even amongst the harshest critics of funk-jam authenticity, and the band’s impeccable hip-hop pedigree undoubtedly helped. The six members can name Kanye West, Stevie Wonder, Questlove, Justin Timberlake, Eminem, Dr. Dre, 50 Cent, and Solange as just a few of their past collaborators. Benny alone has a hefty roster under his belt; Dave Matthews Band, Dr. John, and John Mayer are just a few of his extensive past credits. Their individual expertise amongst some of the world’s most prominent artists has been essential in informing their work together.
Lettuce’s latest original single, “Krewe,” is a promising glimpse into their upcoming new album Elevate, set to be released on June 14th. The song features a pure tried-and-true funk, as we’ve come to expect from the band, but it also showcases a stronger psychedelic and hip-hop presence than their past work. This varied range, which happens all within the span of a single track, speaks to their mastery of instrumental configurations. Their latest cover of the Tears for Fears classic “Everybody Wants To Rule the World” also reflects their ample flexibility and their ability to make any song their own. Lettuce is well on it’s way to joining funk’s highest ranks amongst the likes of Kamasi Washington, Thundercat, or Flying Lotus. The band’s chaotic yet cohesive range of musical inspirations are what make it so compelling; among a sea of musical mimicry, Lettuce thrives afloat with pure creative authenticity.
Pre-order Elevate here.
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