Some Skunk Funk – Brecker Brothers (Analyse)

Skunk Funk Music Lesson

Okay, let's take a look at some Skunk Funk, or Skunk Funk as it's commonly known in the funk fusion circles. This great Brecker Brothers tune features the awesome Peter Erskine on the original recording.

The Essence of Funk Fusion

In this style of funk fusion, you never play the same thing twice. Thousands of drummers have played Skunk Funk, and while improvisation is key, the fundamental elements remain the same:

• Melody
• Structure
• Feel
• Sections

We need to pay attention to these aspects while recognizing that much of this tune is improvised around rhythmic ideas. This is at the height of Grade 8, so feel free to interpret what's written.

Key Points to Remember:

• Don't stress too much about playing everything note for note.
• We have an arrangement that will lock in well with the track.
• Improvisation and creativity are crucial.
• Stick as close as possible to the arrangement but be open to change.

Tips for Collective Performance

What we are looking for is a great collective performance of the tune. It's important that the essence of the song is there, and you've paid attention to the chart.

Feel free to express yourself; there's ample opportunity to be creative around those sections.

Section Breakdown

I won't go through every single section, as it would take too long, but I'd like to provide some key tips for moving between sections:

1. Introduction & Rhythmic Figures

From the intro to the outro, the piece contains definite rhythmic figures. For example, the very opening:

1, 2, 3, 4, baby.

It's crucial to have a plan in your practice sessions regarding how you will handle transitions.

• The introduction phrase appears several times.
• Change sticking patterns as you wish; there are no patterns written.

2. Sticking Patterns

You might want to go from:

• Right to left cymbals
• Alternating hands (e.g., right, left, left)

For example, you could play:

• Hand to hand feel from right cymbal to left cymbal.
• Or use variations like right, right, left, left, right.

Just experiment and see what feels comfortable as you navigate through the part.

Groove and Energy

For the main groove, adhere closely to the set bass drum patterns in conjunction with the arrangement.

Key Techniques:

• Rim Shot: Play with a big rim shot because the arrangement calls for it in a high-energy number.

• Hi-Hat feel: This is vital throughout; let's aim for dynamic contrast.

Transitioning Into Sections

In the C section, transition to the ride cymbal. Incorporate:

• Hi-hat quarter notes
• Syncopation on the snare

Bell Patterns in Section E

In the E section, focus on moving between:

• Bell
• Body
• Crash cymbal

This will refine your dynamics as you play.

Improvisation Opportunities

The second time through sections is more improvised. We've made a deliberate decision to allow for this flexibility.

Special Consideration:

• Seven-Eight Bars: Keep an eye out for the seven-eight fills, especially in the intro and E section.

Final Advice

• Stickings: Ensure your stickings are solid.
• Anticipation: Know your transitions to avoid getting lost in the rhythm.

I would recommend memorizing the tune and thinking through the rhythmic phrases to feel confident on stage.

Conclusion

There is a lot going on in Skunk Funk.

• Think about your time and sound.
• Check out the finer details in your Rock School package.

Listen closely to the backing track, observe the instrumentation, and enjoy the experience of playing.

Have fun with Skunk Funk! It's a challenging track, but you'll truly enjoy it.

Thanks and see you soon!