Jungle>>Funk

In an interview held after performing at a Jazz Festival in the Netherlands a number of years back, singer, songwriter and percussionist, Vinx De’Jon Parrette, described his interest in working with several drummer friends of his, including Will Calhoun, on a techno inspired, live drum project with fast rhythm’s. Word of this idea soon got out and promoters began contacting Vinx’s agent to book the project - however, the band hadn’t even been put together yet. Calhoun suggested calling Doug Wimbish, who could bring his talents as bassist and composer, master with effects, ambience and sound as well as multi-instrumentalist skills to the band.

Hence, Jungle Funk, in 1996, was formed, the merge of three iconic musicians each in their own right - Doug Wimbish, Will Calhoun and Vinx - combining the drum and bass, jazz and funk infused rhythms of Headfake with Vinx’s melodic, grooving and rhythmic vocals and percussion. The group is known for its use of sampling, electronic percussion and digital looping in a live setting creating live DJ inspired songs. 

Jungle Funk toured extensively in Europe, often collectively creating tracks “on the spot” during live jamming, while also including songs written individually by Doug, Will and Vinx, adding the repertoire to their live performance. In 2015, Jungle Funk was invited to perform at The John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts Millennium Stage in Washington, D.C.

In his book Brave New Bass, author Chris Jisi writes, "the innovative trio combines state-of-the-art technology, quality songs, and serious musicianship, all with a club-savvy dance sensibility. The resulting shows and eponymous live album are collages of high-energy drum 'n' bass and hip-hop grooves, smooth, passionate vocals, and heady sonic improvisation.”

Jungle Funk has released a self-titled, self released album Jungle Funk; and their official debut album, also titled Jungle Funk, released under ESC records and recorded live in Austria.