The New Mastersounds

The New Mastersounds are a cornerstone of the modern 'New Funk' movement, emerging from Leeds, UK, in 1999. Led by guitarist and producer Eddie Roberts, the band successfully bridged the gap between the Northern Soul scene and the global jam band circuit.

Their sound is heavily indebted to the 1960s and 70s masters of instrumental funk, specifically The Meters and Grant Green, but they apply a crisp, modern production clarity that makes their work highly DJ-friendly. Over two decades, they have evolved from a raw, deep-funk outfit into a sophisticated jazz-fusion ensemble that occasionally incorporates soulful vocals, most notably collaborating with Corinne Bailey Rae. Their cultural position is unique: they are a British band that became a staple of the American funk and jam scene, frequently performing at major festivals like Jazz Fest in New Orleans. Critically, they are praised for their 'tightness' and their ability to maintain a vintage aesthetic using authentic analog gear and recording techniques. They represent the gold standard for instrumental funk that prioritizes rhythmic interplay over individual virtuosity.