Arrested Development w/ Brandi & the Alexanders + Funk Flex

Brandi and the Alexanders is a psych-rock and soul band from New York City that draws inspiration from R&B Queens like Aretha Franklin and Chaka Khan, the subversive funk of Chic, and the experimentation of Marvin Gaye’s solo albums. The band has carved out a reputation for its cosmopolitan soul, driven by its love for an insatiable groove of grit and heart with a dose of attitude.

Lead singer Brandi Thompson, respected as a powerful vocalist in the classic soul vein of Aretha Franklin, Sharon Jones, and Gloria Gaynor, brings a lively fire that dances inside the Alexanders’ sophisticated and cinematic heartbeat. Brought together in 2015 first as an 11-piece cover band before hitting the road in 2017 as a quartet, the band has been a ragtag collective of friends and family honing their sound between adventurous sets on tour. Music blog Pop Matters cuts to the chase, “This is music to move to,” referring to their 2022 EP, Reflection.

Blurring genres with disco-club gems, slow-burn soul, and majestic gospel, Reflection showcased the band's versatility with 70’s-tinged backbeats, timeless harmonies, and Brittany Howard meets Sharon Jones vocals. The fusion of styles earned them praise from music publications such as Pop Matters, Earmilk, BandsDoBK, No Depression, Paste Music Magazine, The Deli, Bust, and more.

Brandi and the Alexanders' most recent single, "Perfectly Imperfect," is a loping guitar-driven ode to late 70s pop and funk, which offers an early taste of their upcoming EP, Black Cherry. The Deli Mag, a prominent New York music blog, describes them as "a compelling fusion of soul, funk, pop, R&B, and gospel," with lush harmonies and a "spacey interpretation of 60s girl group leads." Brandi and the Alexanders are set to captivate audiences and continue their journey with their high energy, head-nodding rhythms, and ever-evolving sound.

Funkmaster Flex, born Aston George Taylor Jr. on August 5, 1967, in The Bronx, New York, is a legendary DJ, radio personality, and hip-hop icon. Widely recognized as one of the pioneers of modern DJing and a key figure in the development of hip-hop culture, Flex's influence extends far beyond the turntables. Growing up in the birthplace of hip-hop, The Bronx, Flex developed a deep love for music at an early age. Flex's unparalleled ability to blend, scratch, and manipulate records quickly gained his attention and established his reputation as a formidable force in the DJ world. Flex's breakthrough came in the early 1990s when he became a prominent figure on New York City's iconic radio station, Hot 97. Hosting his own show, "Funkmaster Flex's 60 Minutes of Funk," he showcased his unparalleled mixing skills, exclusive interviews, and premieres of new music. Beyond his radio career, Flex's impact on the music industry is undeniable. He released several highly successful mixtapes, including the critically acclaimed "The Mix Tape, Vol. 1" in 1995, which featured exclusive freestyles and collaborations from some of the biggest names in hip-hop. Flex's mixtapes became essential listening for fans and served as a launching pad for many aspiring artists. Flex's contributions to the hip-hop community extend beyond his DJing prowess. He has played a significant role in breaking new artists, introducing the world to talent such as 50 Cent, Big Pun, and DMX through his radio show and mixtapes. Funkmaster Flex's groundbreaking contributions to DJing, radio, and the hip-hop industry have left an indelible mark. His innovative techniques, dedication to breaking new talent, and unwavering love for the art form have made him an iconic figure and a true pioneer in the realm of hip-hop and DJ culture.