Funkestra reviews and press quotes

Here a collection of Funkestra album reviews, press quotes & good vibes allround. The Redtenbacher’s Funkestra is here to funkify your life.

Note that from ca 2019 onwards the Funkestra morphed themselves into the Masterlink Sessions studio band cutting hundreds of songs and videos with a plethoria of artists from different genres. This includes Mutja Buena (Sugababes), Mike Farris (Grammy winning artist for Best Roots Gospel Album 2014), Hamish Stuart (Average White Band, Ringo Starr & His All-Starr Band), Robben Ford (Miles Davis, Yellow Jackets), Blessing Annatoria (The Voice UK winner), Jo Harman (Van Morrison Alumni Band), Phil Lassiter (Prince and the New Power Generation, 11-time Grammy award winning horn/string arranger) and a host of upcoming talent from the vibrant UK scene like Rosie Frater-Taylor and Georgia van Etten to name but a few.

Notable recording and live activites that developed out of the Masterlink Sessions include the Joni Re-imagined show and collaborations with Jo Harman, Connor Selby, Rumer et al.

Yet, whilst all this was going on the Funkestra worked hard on a parallel musical lane writing and recording new original Jazz Funk material for these full-length instrumental albums: “The Colours Of Joni”, “Live Your Best Dream”, “Funkopia” (Q1 2025), “The Carter Exchange” (Q3 2025) and “Optimisation Machine” (Q1 2026).

Expect brand-new Funkestra reviews and press quotes to come in the coming months and enjoy the selection about previous works below.

ONE-LINERS

“Hi this is Bootsy, baby and I’m here with Stefan and I want you to check out Stefan and his Funk Orchestra. He is given up the funk and he keeps giving up the funk. Ooh funk me mama, yeah baby. Funk you.”
– Bootsy Collins (James Brown, Bootsy Collins Rubber Band, Funkadelic)

“Redtenbacher’s Funkestra is a GO-TO funk monstrosity that consistently delivers a steady groove guaranteed to MAKE YOU MOVE!”
– Michael B ( host of ‘Tonic: The Funky Groove Show’ | KGOU FM, Oklahoma)

“Stefan, you know what the Funk is about.”
– Fred Wesley (James Brown, Funkadelic, JB Horns)

“Lean, agile, and breathless in its groove”
– Jacob Webb ( KEXP | Seattle, Washington)

“A pure slice of unalloyed, joyful Funk.”
– Steve Rubie (606 Club London)

“Funk in its classic form remains alive, and Redtenbacher’s Funkestra’s is a stellar example.”
– George Graham (WVIA-FM | Scranton, Pennsylvania)

“Stefan Redtenbacher remains one of the most prominent composers, producers and all-round bass monsters in the UK.”
– Nick Wells (iBass Magazine, UK)

““The funkiest band in the land.”
– Mike Dolbear (mikedolbear.com)

“Never less than illuminating.”
– Steve Morphew (Blues Review, UK)

“The Funkestra’s trademark is mid-tempo funk with just the right amount of bite, rarely abrasive and never toothless, integrating a variety of retro styles.”
– David B. Wilson (Wilson & Alroy’s Record Reviews)

LIVE PERFORMANCE

“Stefan Redtenbacher’s Funkestra were sensational! They showed why they are considered masters of jazz funk music and had the audience moving from the first number. Each player a virtuoso in their own right, yet they play like they are one and clearly enjoy the chemistry! We will definitely find a way to get them back!”
– Sam Parker, Guildford Jazz (Nov 16, 2024)

“Funkestra‘s brand of super sassy funk featuring soaring vocals from sparkling Helena May, led from the bass by supremo/leader/composer/arranger Stefan Redtenbacher featured the creme de la creme of Rhythm section & ‘lickety-split’ horns. Funkestra‘s tremendous musicianship & fiery soloists brought the Ziggy’s crowd to their Feet. North London has never sounded so good… 2 sets of top class funk- fuelled Joy”.
– Steve Taylor, Ziggy’s World Jazz Club (Jun 16, 2018)

“This incredible London-based 7-piece is led by Austrian bassist Stefan Redtenbacher who draws his inspiration from jazz, funk and soul. The Funkestra’s name pretty accurately describes the high-energy feel of the music as this band, with its fiery two-horn frontline and slinky guitar, perform original funky grooves with an authority and style that is hard to beat. With 11 albums already to their name, tonight the band will be launching their latest recording, “Part of Me”, featuring their wonderful singer Helena May in what expat Austrian bass player Stefan playfully refers to as “Strudel Funkateers meet bushy-tailed soulstress”! The band, as you may have gathered by now, is highly entertaining with tremendous musicianship applied to some amazing music. A guaranteed great night out!”
– Steve Rubie, 606 Club (Jun 01, 2018)

“Stefan Redtenbacher remains one of the most prominent composers, producers and all-round bass monsters in the UK.”
“Perhaps the most defining characteristic of Stefan Redtenbacher’s career to date is the fact he’s led his own band since 2005, something few bassists have attempted. Despite juggling the roles of writer, arranger, bassist and producer, the Funkestra’s sound has always had a strong emphasis on groove, anchored by Stefan’s disciplined approach to the bass. Onstage, he delivers the goods via a tried-and-tested set-up: “I’ve got an old Ampeg B15, an Aguilar DB750 and an Aguilar Tone Hammer 500. My main bass is a ‘70s Fender Jazz Bass, and sometimes I also use a Music Man Sterling.” The Time Thief features a wealth of the world’s finest horn players who have participated as special-guests. Pee Wee Ellis, Rick Margitza, Chris Hunter and Andy Snitzer have all signed up. Also onboard are Michael B Nelson’s Hornheads of Prince’s famed New Power Generation.”
– Nick Wells | iBass Magazine, March 30, 2017

“RB Funkestra is a powerhouse groove & funk outfit who have been strutting their stuff on regular Friday nights at the Club for the last 10 years. Led by expat Austrian bassist Stefan Redtenbacher this band very much does what it says on the tin. How Stef first got the git is a cute storey. I had known his partner (now wife, also called Stef, very confusing… for some time and she kept saying that her boyfriend was a musician and had a ‘great’ band. I have, of course, heard about many bands run by boyfriends that are apparently ‘great’, so was polite but wary. She eventually gave me a CD and I discovered…that they really were great! That was 10 years ago and RB Funkestra is now a well established part out our Friday night schedule. Currently featuring the excellent young singer Helena May Harrison this is a pure slice of unalloyed, joyful Funk.”
– Steve Rubie, 606 Jazz Club (Feb 01, 2017)

“Now, I could sit here and tell you all about this band, but I think you would be much better served just listening for yourself. This is music for a house party. I guarantee your guests won’t be looking toward the door if you put this band on. They’ll probably wonder how much of this funk goodness you have. Do yourself a favor and add some house party music to your Friday.”
– Uncle Sal Piccoli, Incognito Music Magazine (Apr 12, 2013)

“Recently came across the venue 606 Jazz Club. I gather whatever you see there will be outstanding, but on the 7th October this year I celebrated my birthday listening to Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. Never have I wanted to jump out of my seat and boogie on the dance floor, more. Unfortunately at this underground restaurant jazz venue there was little space to get up and ‘shake your groove thang’! With the band’s mix of funk, soul and jazz the whole room was alive with energy and since I have bought their album ‘Concubine Chronicles’. A great album but I would recommend a live concert as their vivacity and clear enjoyment of the music and performance is not to be missed.”
– Laura Bell, Decibel.net (Dec 06, 2011)

“You’ve played at the 606 club a few times before, why do you like the venue? We actually love the venue. We played our first gig there in June 2006 and have been playing there regularly ever since. Friday nights suits us down to the ground as the crowd is lively, up for it, ready to forget their working weeks and start their weekend with a party. The venue has also been a fertile creative ground to develop our sound and style. Big thanks have to go to Steve Rubie, who has been running the club successfully for 35 years, for making us part of it. It’s great to feel connected to all the other fantastic jazz musicians in the London scene. ”
– Tom, Jazz Pace (Nov 10, 2011)

“The phrase ‘world class’ can be overused but the multi million streaming Funkestra consist of players with enviable resumes, whose polymath musical skills extend beyond the jazz-funk/fusion world for which they are most famed.”
– Mark Ede | BiGiAM Agency

LIVE YOUR BEST DREAM

THE GOLDEN SWITCHBACK

The Golden Switchback | One gaze at the album cover gives you an idea of the insane guest list for this particular recording with a horn section big enough to fill the Apollo stage. The concept of the album was to create a soundtrack like Quincy Jones and sound like it was a lost album from the ’60s and that’s exactly what it does. An instant classic and worthy of a vinyl purchase.
– Funktopia (2021)

BIG FUNK BAND

Big Funk Band | This is the 12th full-blown instrumental album by UK-based Redtenbacher’s Funkestra, the brainchild of Austrian bassist and principal composer and bandleader Stefan Redtenbacher. Pioneers of original wall-to-wall Jazz Funk. With more than twenty releases under their belt and regular London gigs, they have been a mainstay UK Funk band for the past 15 years. Big Funk Band is a collection of eight original and expertly crafted Jazz Funk album with a stellar line up of Jazz and Funk heavies alongside the battle-hardened core of the Funkestra’s inner core. Some of the guests are Cory Wong (gtr), Stanton Moore (drs), Keith Carlock (drs), Benny Greb (drs), Francesco Mendiola (drs), Tucker Antell (saxophone), Bruce Gertz (double bass) and Mike Outram (gtr).
– The Wicked Sound | Best Albums of 2021

Big Funk Band | Wer also auf instrumentalen funky stuff mit reichlich ausgechecktem Gebläse steht und vor allen Dingen auch mal eine knappe Dreiviertelstunde ohne Gesang auskommen kann, dem sei das neue Glanzstück von REDTENBACHER’S FUNKESTRA ans Herz gelegt. Wer sich in der Vergangenheit bereits an der kraftvollen Urgewalt solcher Jazzkollegen wie TOWER OF POWER, BRECKER BROTHERS oder AVERAGE WHITE BAND erfreuen konnte, der darf nun das FUNKESTRA in diesen erlauchten Kreis miteinbeziehen.
– Hooked on music 2021

Big Funk Band | The best Funk albums of 2021
– funknstuff.net

SLIPPED BISCUIT

The latest single from Stefan Redtenbacher and his Funkestra sees the incredible Keith Carlock take up the drum chair while Boston saxophone player Tucker Antell is in the driving seat of a horn section that’s sure to drive woofers and tweeters into fits of ecstasy. Despite such high profile guests, the key element remains the musical concept itself, which digs deep into the funky grooves that have moved generations.
– Nick Wells | iBass Magzine, April 1, 2019

THE HANG

The Hang | This sort of funk-based music has been around for more than 50 years now, and though computers supply the beats on many contemporary commercial tunes that claim funk as their genre, the music in its classic form remains alive, and Redtenbacher’s Funkestra’s new album is a stellar example.
– George Grahame (2020)

“The beautiful thing with Redtenbacher’s Funkestra is they make music first and put their serious chops second, and the end result is an extremely fine album and a worthy next chapter in the band’s legacy.”
– Nick Wells, iBass Magazine (Nov 27, 2018)

PART OF ME

“Each and every song on this 8-track, jazz inspired album, from the upbeat ‘Sweet Child O’ Mine’ to the groovy ‘Toxic’, is unique and brilliantly composed. Each cover differs so greatly from the song’s original style and it adds a whole other level to the pop songs. There is no one standout track from the album as they all bring something unique and new, and the album as a whole, with their incomparable style and buzzing energy, could never fail to brighten up a room.”
– Celia Moon, Wavebyte (Nov 14, 2018)

‘Toxic Traces’ – Stefan Redtenbacher’s Funkestra featuring Helena May recently released a cover of Britney Spears’ 2004 ‘Toxic’, because why not? Redtenbacher, a fearsomely accomplished bassist, initially played the song as part of his jazz-funk band’s regular 606 Club shows, which led to the recording of the single. We’ve heard it, and it’s nuts; do consider purchase, and what’s more, make sure you catch the Funkestra live.”
– Joel McIver, Bassguitar Magazine (Jun 18, 2018)

BENEATH THE BASSLINE

“Among the best-edited moments are when various players discuss slapping, and we arrive at Larry Graham talking about how he founded the technique. Or Christian McBride detailing his favourite James Brown period, with a segue to his hero, Bootsy Collins. And it’s great to have Lee Sklar’s “producer switch” story documented. There are two through-lines for the film: The first is rising English bass star Stefan Redtenbacher’s potent score, with his horn-infused Funkestra. (The movie’s soundtrack album also includes an original by Michael Manring, who appears in the film.) The second is Will Lee.”
– Chris Jisi, Bassplayer Magazine (Jun 29, 2018)

THE TIME THIEF

“Bassist and bandleader Stefan Redtenbacher directs his crew of brass and rhythm masters through a set of modern 20th-century dance-floor action. The standout mid-tempo Walkin’ Struttin’ Strollin’ conjures up the sights and sounds of the 1970s East Coast.”
– Keith Ames & Tom Short, The Musician (Jun 16, 2017)

“Bassist Stefan Redtenbacker leads a funkifed band of Mike Sturgis/dr, Eran Kendler/g, Rob Taggart/key,and Dave Limina/B3 along with a hip horn section and swinging string section on a toe tapping collection of pieces. The guitars have a case of the whacka wookas on the infectious funky chickens like “Guilty” and “Lil John Wayne” while surf is up with a Venture groove on “Funkie Moon.” The Hammond B3 gasps for air on the fun title track, wile guest sax solos by Pee Wee Ellis and Andy Snitzer make “Walkin, Struttin Strollin’” and “2048” finger licking good. If your shoes are shined and you want to dance, get a hold of this one.”
– George Harris, Jazz Weekly (Jun 01, 2017)

“The London-based bassist punches out old-school grooves and classic riffs from electric funk, soul, R&B and acid jazz, with guests that include Pee Wee Ellis. ***”
– Selwyn Harris, Jazzwise Magazine (Mar 01, 2017)

“Vrooooooom! That’s the sound of Redtenbacher’s Funkestra roaring into the station with a new album, The Time Thief. The engine on this baby is Stefan Redtenbacher, composer and bassist extraordinaire, whose precision with the beat keeps the whole well-oiled machine turning on a dime. It’s a delightful melange of sounds, moods, and eras, less time thief than time traveler. If this is a harbinger of the world in 2048 – witty, diverse, open-minded, with funk and groove for all – I’m feeling a bit more hopeful about the future.”
– Juliet Eastland, Redtenbacher’s Funkestra Guest Blog (Jan 06, 2017)

“Stefan Redtenbacher remains the consummate bass master, not forgetting his sizable talents as a writer, producer and arranger. While his technique and taste are impeccable, it’s his mighty groove capabilities and strengths as a bandleader that really shine on the Funkestra’s latest album. In fact, it’s these latter qualities that make ‘The Time Thief’ a real joy to listen to, marking it out as a real ‘band’ record and not just a vehicle for some OTT bass chops. Bottling some of their slamming live energy, The Time Thief bounces along with hip-shaking ease without losing sight of a good tune or a powerful groove. While some funk bands labour under their influences, Redtenbacher’s Funkestra have used some deeply embedded ingredients to produce an album that’s dripping with slinky riffs and smooth new grooves.”
– Nick Wells, iBass Magazine (Dec 07, 2016)

“Three days to complete an entire album may seem ridiculous, but when you combine some of Europe and America’s busiest, most talented, successful and prolific musicians it all seems very easy. Sitting in the control room listening it sounds like the finished product – and they’re playing live. However, it is album number seven together, so they’re well practiced. The transatlantic funk/jazz/soul band is the brain child of Stefan Redtenbacher, who’s CV, like everyone in the band, reads like a who’s who in music over the last 20 years, Stefan writes all the tracks too. Without going into too much detail (and we could, the list is huge), Funkestra boast playing credits from Elton to Amy Winehouse to Ceeloo Green to B.B King to well, everyone. We had a live room full of very accomplished legends. Producing and engineering was Rupert Christie, who’s worked with some incredible people himself, and they all enjoyed home cooked food for the three days.”
– Hannah | Monnow Valley Blog (Aug 12, 2013)

DR HYPENSTEIN

“Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on The Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is “Baby Fat” by Redtenbacher’s Funkestra from the 2015 album Dr. Hypenstein on Wooden Hat Records.”
– Jacob Webb, KEXP Blog (Feb 18, 2015)

“Dr. Hypenstein, the new CD by Stefan Redtenbacher and his group Redbacher’s Funkestra, which is more like a virtual group on the album, is a fun, danceable mix of retro funk with clever 21st Century ingredients and digital sonic manipulations. The album leaves no doubt that the leader is the bass player, with a lot of the grooves revolving around bass riffs, but it’s well done. Producer and multi-instrumentalist Thomas Feurer adds a lot to this album, including many of the ingredients and the horn arrangement style of his own group Intended Immigration, which as far as I’m concerned is a good thing. And for an album with electronic drums samples and loops rather a real drummer, it’s impressively danceable most of the time, though there are some instances where the beat gets a little monotonous. Perhaps that’s why all the tunes on the album are rather short – there are thirteen of them on a roughly 41 minute album. And there are enough clever bits to make it both something f”
– George Graham, George Graham Reviews (Feb 11, 2015)

“Funk lovers everywhere may already be acquainted with Stefan Redtenbacher’s ‘Funkestra’, featuring Stefan himself on bass and a host of familiar names on other instruments, including educator extraordinaire, Mike Sturgis.
Absolutely rammed with funky bass lines, exciting horn figures and some outstanding drumming, this is a really top funk album. It starts uptempo with a flute playing melody and from here the album continues in an upward trajectory with some absolutely fantastic grooves and melodies. Things get a little heavier by track 5, “Swagger”; with more of a rock guitar riff and heavy drums with a nice reverb before settling back into an uptempo groove again.
The bass line on “Cave Canem” especially made me smile as the tone and groove are just pure classic funk, alongside some great horn playing. There’s a little bit of a disco vibe on “Bassbulator” which you can’t help but get into, driving the car, washing the dishes, walking the dog; doesn’t matter where you are you will just have to move as it’s infectiously groovy! As far as song titles go, this album also has some gems, add to previously mentioned “Bassbulator” the excellent “Bassface”, “Macho Matchup” and “Tower of TNT”. It’s a great album and almost too much funk (if there could be such a thing) by the end of all 13 tracks, but I guess on the flip side you could just say it’s value for money.
London’s 606 Club gets a special mention inside the sleeve and I can imagine seeing these guys in that dark and moody jazz club would be a fantastic night’s entertainment, I’ll certainly be keeping my eye out for them playing live.”
– Rob Crisp | MikeDolbear.com

BABY FAT

“Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on The Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is “Baby Fat” by Redtenbacher’s Funkestra from the 2015 album Dr. Hypenstein on Wooden Hat Records.

Under the moniker Redtenbacher’s Funkestra, bassist Stefan Redtenbacher leads a group of top-notch musicians through his jazz and funk workouts. An alumnus of the Vienna Conservatory and Berklee College of Music, the Austrian-born musician and composer arrived in London after graduating from Berklee in 1996 and hasn’t looked back. Both in an educational capacity – he was a department head at the Academy of Contemporary Music for close to 15 years – and as a performer, Redtenbacher‘s musical connections run wide. (His session and performance credits include artists from Adam Ant to Amy Winehouse.) His primary musical output is the jazz and funk outfit Redtenbacher’s Funkestra, who have gigged steadily for a decade and released eight albums, including this year’s Dr. Hypenstein. (A ninth, entitled The Time Thief, is being targeted for release later in the year.) Armed with a saxophone lead worthy of its own Ill Clinton video, “Baby Fat” is everything its title doesn’t imply: it’s lean, agile, and breathless in its groove. Redtenbacher clearly knows the tools of his trade, and they’re all here, from the Nile Rodgers-style licks to the vibrant, subtly propulsive bass underpinning it all. “Baby Fat” sounds like it was a blast to record, if not only because of its all-around explosive nature, but also because of the sense of sheer joy that runs through every explosive climax.

Redtenbacher’s Funkestra will continue their residency at London’s 606 Club next month.
-Jacob Webb | KEXP | 18 Feb 2015

“Contrary to what Ronson’s Uptown Funk might suggest, funk isn’t stuck in 1982. It’s living and breathing and, in the hands of Stefan Redtenbacher, it’s a pumping powerhouse of punchy grooves. There are thirteen tracks on this album, not one of them over four minutes long – no self-indulgent, meandering introspections here. That’s typical of what I particularly love about Stefan’s work, the way his basslines work in service of the overall vibe of the tune, rather than the other way round. So often you’ll hear virtuoso bass players completely smother their material with extravagant displays of musicianship, but the name Funkestra is surely no accident – it’s about the big picture (or to be more apt, the big sound), not the individual. He’s got all the chops in the world, but doesn’t feel the need to overpower the groove by grandstanding.”
– Andrew Goodwin, http://captainautumn.blog.co.uk (Jan 16, 2015)

THE COOKER

“The saxophone lives in a strange world. It’s neither fish nor fowl. Not brass yet not quite a woodwind. The saxophone has never been fully embraced by classical music or by the classical orchestra and, outside of the jazz world, the saxophone has a poor reputation. This can sometimes seem confining. It is, however, an amazing instrument with huge possibilities that have only been partially explored.” -Lenny Pickett Let’s talk about motivic development. But first, let’s talk about Stefan Redtenbacher. And then Lenny Pickett. We have much to discuss… Plus a solo transcription!”
– Nick Blechar, The Composer’s Toolshed (Jul 10, 2014)

“I absolutely adore jazz, period. However, it is easy to ‘sleep’ on a genre which played a huge role in my musical education. Yes, it sounds like I turned my back which seems hypocritical given my jazz piano background. Actually much of the reason is that popular music tend to ‘shock’ and pull in so many major headlines. It’s not fair obviously, as some of today’s greatest talents lie within the jazz realm and definitely don’t receive the attention they deserve. Jazz may often take a backseat on this particular site, but it doesn’t in my heart in the least. I do review it in addition to the ‘pop’ and Avishai Cohen, Gerald Clayton, and Redtenbacher’s Funkestra definitely had killer albums. #MadRespect”
– Brent Faulkner, Starpulse.com (Oct 13, 2013)

“Led by brainchild bassist and composer Stefan Redtenbacher, this R&B/jazz crossover project is exceptional. The ‘Funkestra’ is constructed with contrasting horn sections: The Jericho Horns from the UK and the Hornheads from the US. The core rhythm section comprised of guitar, bass, B3, and Rhodes rounds out the ensemble. The Funkestra never seems to miss a ‘groove’. “Crankmaster General” initiates ‘funkily-sound’ featuring excellent shedding on guitar via Eric Krasno. b lays a solid bass foundation on “The Cooker”, with Lenny Pickett showing off mad tenor sax chops. “Unsquare Blues”, drenched in gospel influence, provides sax soloist Paul Booth ample inspiration while fellow standout “One Afternoon in Tunisia” contrasts with more restraint, still……packing a K.O. punch. Sixteen tracks deep, The Cooker never disappoints. Consistent and enjoyable, the effort serves as a triumphant showcase of top-rate musicianship.”
– Exy, Exystence.net (Jul 09, 2013)

“Le groove prend les rennes sur Le Gros Tas de Zik en cette fin de journée. Stephen Redtenbacher, bassiste autrichien, déclenche une explosion de sons et de couleurs via sa bombe Hausmusik. Le chef “funkestre” offre une musique rythmée et pleine de relief. Le P-Funk de George Clinton, le funk fusion, le funk des JB’s et la “salsoul” (mélange de salsa et de soul) divers penchant se retrouvent à travers les treize pistes du projet. L’inénarrable Fred Wesley collabore avec le Redtenbacher Funkestra sur le morceau Fred’s Haus et son mythique trombone, colle parfaitement avec la teinte sonore du projet. Une envie tacite de se déchaîner sur le présent tas de zik, parcoure le corps et l’esprit. En résumé : grosse session de sons faits avec passion et qui se vit sans inhibitions ! Projet à prix libre à partir de 9 euros ! Keep the funk alive !”

“The groove takes the reins on Le Gros Tas de Zik at the end of the day. Stephen Redtenbacher, Austrian bassist, unleashes an explosion of sounds and colors via his Hausmusik bomb. The “funkestre” conductor offers rhythmic music full of relief. The P-Funk of George Clinton, the funk fusion, the funk of the JB’s and the “salsoul” (mixture of salsa and soul) various leanings are found throughout the thirteen tracks of the project. The indescribable Fred Wesley collaborates with the Redtenbacher Funkestra on the song Fred’s Haus and his legendary trombone fits perfectly with the sound color of the project. An unspoken desire to let loose on the present pile of zik runs through the body and the mind. In summary: big session of sounds made with passion and which can be experienced without inhibitions! Project at free price from 9 euros! Keep the funk alive!”
– Alpha Saliou Diallo, Le Gros Tas de Zik (Nov 06, 2013)

“If Stefan Redtenbacher was a chef, he’d be Raymond Blanc. Oozing with continental charm and passionate about what he does, on Wednesday night this funky Austrian bassist and his band cooked up a Michelin-starred feast of funk that made Pizza Express’s portions seem even more puny than normal. The Austrian is also the most cool and collected player on stage – doing the funky pigeon with his head, smiling permanently and generally just having a ball. And he’s pretty good fun between songs too, at one point joking that every audience member had to buy a copy of ‘The Cooker’ so that his wife would let him sleep in the bed instead of the dog basket.”
– Rich Ward, 11 Is Louder Than 10 (Aug 25, 2013)

“Once upon a time, people actually went to night clubs to dance. I don’t mean jump up and down like you’re trying to assist your peristalsis, but to get down and BOOGIE to music like The Average White Band, EWF and most of all, to Tower of Power. This Funkestra has got that “what is hip” attitude; it should since saxist Lenny Pickett was a member of TOP for awhile. The pair of horn sections snap like fresh pea pids, and this collection of tunes has got a backbeat so solid that you could use it for blocks to support your GTO. Your neck will feel like it just saw a chiropractor on “Crankmaster General” and you might need some deep tissue work on your low back as you sock your pelvis out of joint on “Funky Barbarella” and the title track. This disc has more deep grooves than a 78 rpm record; you’ll play this one full blast until the cops come knocking at the door!”
– George W. Harris, Jazz Weekly (Jul 03, 2013)

“Stefan Redtenbacher is a bassist, composer, and lover of all things funky. Originally from Austria, he now lives in London leading his own band Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. Last April they released their fourth studio album: The Cooker. As usual, Redtenbacher worked with many different musicians (in addition to the five core members of Funkestra) to create this sizzling album. My favorite collaboration is with legendary tenor saxophonist Lenny Picket (Tower of Power), who plays on both the title track and a second track, titled “Bo & Rhino”. We’ll be listening to both those, plus some of my other favorite songs off The Cooker, on this Saturday night’s edition of The After Hours. We’ll also check out some select tracks from the rest of Redtenbacher’s Funkestra’s excellent discography.”
– Tye Felix Huggins, 100.1 FM KRUU, The Voice of Fairfield (Jun 29, 2013)

“Led by brainchild bassist and composer Stefan Redtenbacher, this R&B/jazz crossover project is exceptional. The ‘Funkestra’ is constructed with contrasting horn sections: “The Jericho Horns” from the UK and the “Hornheads” from the US. The core rhythm section comprised of guitar, bass, B3, and Rhodes rounds out the ensemble. The Funkestra never seems to miss a ‘groove’. “Crankmaster General” initiates ‘funkily-sound’ featuring excellent shedding on guitar via Eric Krasno. Redtenbacher lays a solid bass foundation on “The Cooker”, with Lenny Pickett showing off mad tenor sax chops. “Unsquare Blues”, drenched in gospel influence, provides sax soloist Paul Booth ample inspiration while fellow standout “One Afternoon in Tunisia” contrasts with more restraint, still packing a K.O. punch. Sixteen tracks deep, The Cooker never disappoints. Consistent and enjoyable, the effort serves as a triumphant showcase of top-rate musicianship.”
– Brent Faulkner, PopMatters (Jul 02, 2013)

“Maybe it has something to do with the fact that a bassist (Stefan Redtenbacher, also on Minimoog) is leading this outfit. There’s seemingly something about a bassist’s understanding of the importance of groove that makes large-ish ensembles work well; in less capable hands it would start to sound like a marching band. Some thrilling string section work makes “Funky Barbarella” sound like an ace soundtrack cut from a 70s urban crime drama (a la Shaft). The guitar and bass are in tight lockstep on “The Oracle.” Some lively Fender Rhodes holds things down on “Bo & Rhino.” For a few perilous seconds during its intro, “The Whip” threatens to head into Blood, Sweat & Tears territory (intentionally or otherwise referencing “Spinning Wheels”), but thankfully the Funkestra has much groovier things on its collective mind than watered-down, white-bread funk.”
– Bill Kopp, Bill Kopp’s Music Blog (Jun 01, 2013)

“[Craig Charles:] Stefan Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. Stefan has been on the Funk scene for years. He is a bass player from Vienna who studied at the Conservatory and at Berklee in the US. This is from his forthcoming fifth album called ‘The Cooker’. Stefan literally records his albums all over the world and gets one of the most historical figures in the Funk world to feature on them so every one is essential to find. This is ‘The Oracle’.”
– The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show, BBC Radio 6 Music (May 25, 2013)

“Bass master Stefan Redtenbacher, his trans-Atlantic outfit and guest guitarist Krasno serve a groovy feast on this track from The Cooker.”
– Elysa Gardner, USA Today (Apr 08, 2013)

CONCUBINE CHRONICLES

“We have here one of those rare funky SoundClouders who like their sound to be organic, no artificial additives. You’re listening to the track ‘Atomic Sterile Flies’, by Redtenbacher’s Funkestra. Real, lovely, buttery horns playing a sensual riff, complemented with the beauty of an electric guitar and an organ which you’ll hear producing lovely jazzy solos. The groove is assured by a busy but groovy drum and Mr Redtenbacher himself at the bass. Check out Redtenbacher’s Funkestra’s SoundCloud profile here for more organic funk tracks. Read more about the Funkestra on their official bio. Got an iPhone and a hunger for rhythm? We recommend this fantastic metronome app built by Mr Redtenbacher and his band.”
– Shaun & Ariel, Groove Drops (Feb 24, 2013)

“The UK’s funkiest, grooviest band will be tearing up Soho music eatery Pizza Express Jazz Club on Wednesday. With band leader Stefan Redtenbacher and his crew serving up chops hotter than a Diavolo pizza this is one not to miss.”
– Richard Ward, 11 Is Louder Than 10 (Aug 20, 2013)

“Da funk! Great music to cook by, confessing that’s how i took this for a spin. Redtenbacher’s big horn-y band (UK and US “hornheads” get credit) is the Funkestra. suitable for blues, dancing, high energy activities-like cooking.”
– Ann Porotti, 91.1 FM WTJU Jazz (Apr 29, 2013)

“There’s no denying ‘The Cooker’ and with a name like that how would that even be possible. This thing rocks, rolls, but never loses its soul. It’s the sort of album that’s perfect for car chases with Starsky and Hutch or running through the Streets of San Francisco. It’s filled with energy, grooves, and a musicality that’s hard to ignore. This record had to be called The Cooker because what else could you call something that’s filled with so much hot stuff?”
– DJ Paul POP, Popstereoreviews.blogspot.co.uk (Mar 30, 2013)

“Of course, it’s not like the horn-driven Funkestra doesn’t “rock.” The energetic set of songs on “The Cooker” is highlighted by “Crankmaster General,” which features stellar guitar work by Eric Krasno, and knockout sax riffs by special guest Lenny Pickett (Tower of Power) on the title track and “Bo & Rhino.”
– Randy Erickson, La Crosse Tribune (May 09, 2013)

HAUSMUSIK

“Want to see someone get fired up? Ask them about their taste in food or music. So why not combine the two? In a regular feature we go behind the scenes to find out what chefs in the city listen to before and after their restaurants open for service. This week, we head up Kingsway to talk to Gilles L´Heureux, chef-owner of Eater 38 newcomer, Los Cuervos to find out what music makes one of the city’s favourite taco joints tick. For your listening pleasure while you read check out Gilles’ “go-to for body movement, Redtenbacher’s Funkestra and their song The Theme from ‘Diamond Tiger’.”
– Nikki Bayley, Yahoo Canada News (Aug 24, 2014)

“Redtenbacher’s Funkestra”– очень крутые ребята. Играют инструментальный могучий и легкий одновременно, богато- нашпигованный фанк c упором на духовую секцию. Идейный вдохновитель группы басист из Австрии Stefan Redtenbacher. Чувствуется, что у музыканта хорошее музыкальное образование. Никакой самодеятельности и отсебятины. Все треки профессионально сыграны, стремительны по темпу, позитивны по настроению и имеют очень интересные и многослойные аранжировки. Никакого соплежуйства. “Hausmusik”- это чистый драйв и куча положительных эмоций. Ребятам за недолгое время

Redtenbacher’s Funkestra – very cool guys. They play instrumental powerful and light at the same time, richly-spiked funk with emphasis on the brass section. The brainchild of the band, bassist from Austria, Stefan Redtenbacher. It feels like the musician has a good musical education. No amateurism and idiocy. All tracks are professionally played, fast-paced, positive in mood and have very interesting and multi-layered arrangements. He doesn’t insult anyone. “Hausmusik” is pure drive and a bunch of positive emotions.
– Pupsoglot, Pupsoglot Live Journal (Nov 07, 2013)

A VERY FUNKY CHRISTMAS

“Redtenbacher’s Funkestra Very Funky Christmas Santa’s got a brand new bag thanks to Austrian bassist Stefan Redtenbacher and his crew, who convert classic carols into booty-shaking instrumental grooveathons. Shake your jingle bells.”
– Darryl Sterdan, QMI Agency, Mymacmurray.com (Dec 15, 2012)

“This is one of those EP’s that owes its life to modern technology. The players on this album punted the album back and forth over the Internet across international borders until it was ready, willing and able to be heard for Christmas 2012. They did everything but tweet it to each other. The result? Well, if you’ve been unable to track down a copy of the much-maligned Salsoul disco Christmas from the 1970s, believe me folks, this all-instrumental five-song outing will do. It’s extremely well played and it sounds great, but I know a fair number of people out there never go near a music player without their disco-filtering helmet on, so this isn’t for those folks. Slap-bass aficionados, on the other hand, will get an early Christmas gift. They give us “Deck the Halls,” “Hark the Herald Angels Sing,” “Ding Dong Merrily on High,” “We Wish You a Merry Jingle Bells Christmas” and the title song, which keeps the spirit of the more familiar carols alive without sound.”
– Rudolph, Mistletunes (Dec 11, 2012)

‘A Very Funky Christmas: Redtenbacher’s Funkestra (Wooden Hat Records) Featuring real brass, this 5 track collection starts with perky rearrangements of four classics and finishes with an original, the title track. It is the best arrangement of the lot; the solid rhythm section serves as a backdrop for Thomas Feurer’s array of flutes, clarinets, saxes and yes Virginia a cowbell.’
– Brad Auerbach, Entertainment Today (Dec 17, 2012)

“This five-song EP is just the thing to brighten up any staid holiday gathering. These instrumentals percolate with Latin jazz-funk, bringing big-band juice and rhythmic punch to four yuletide classics and one original, the title track. (Los Angeles Times, 3-star review)”
– Randy Lewis, LA Times (Nov 23, 2012)