Written by Aaron Gilliam
The Bluestone is home to a total barn-burner, or church-burner, of a show this weekend. The Columbus Funk ‘N Beer Festival returns to the beautiful downtown venue to bring the party – and the funk. Promoters left no room for disappointment this year inviting some of the most renowned funk bands out right now – Lettuce, Ghost-Note, and The Motet.
The two day event kicks off Thursday night with the highly anticipated return of Lettuce who blew the doors of the old church back in October of 2018. The multi-room venue will also feature a handful of openers to lay down an appetizer of funk before being served up some Lettuce. Beforehand, the incredibly talented Craig Broadhead of Turkuaz is slated for a rare solo DJ set that will be a can’t miss. Ghost-Note is also set to do their thing and pre-prep the “Heads” of Lettuce coming to see their favorite band. There’s nothing better than getting the funk down on a Thursday.
It really is so exciting that this event happens right in our backyard here in Columbus. Lettuce is incredible, especially with the way they seamlessly blend genres. It’s impossible not to have a stank face when you hear their funky shit. The touch of hip hop they add to their music opens them up to be enjoyed by those seeking just a bit more. Lose yourself in their smooth jazz sounds as their horns will blow you away. If you haven’t experienced what they can do to your soul, you 100 percent need to hop in line for your proper dose of Lettuce. Afterwards, make your way over to The Summit for the official afterparty ft. Dj Wuchon (Craig Broadhead of Turkuaz.)
Try not to tire yourself out moving and grooving on night one because night two will carry the torch and keep it burning at a high intensity. Exmag and Ghost Gardens will set the tempo early in the night giving your feet just enough time to warm up for the ultimate dance party to come. One of my personal favorite parts of any festival is the collaboration between artists and Friday night will deliver just that. Members of The Werks, Turkuaz and The Motet will be teaming up for a one of a kind tribute to Ohio Funk. Ohio is the home to many funk legends including the Ohio Players who had such hits as “Love Roller Coaster”, “Fire” and one of my personal favorites, “Funky Worm.” With so much talent between these three bands it’ll be interesting to see who joins in on the fun and shines light on all the funk Ohio has produced for the world. To round off one helluva lineup, The Motet will bring a soulful punch that will totally blow you away. If your ears haven’t yet had the privilege of being baptized in a river of emotions, The Motet being on this lineup ensures you’ll be swooned into a state of bliss. All in all, this weekends Columbus Funk ‘N Beer Festival is the definition of a can’t-miss. Come get funky, enjoy some craft beers from our beverage partners – Rhinegeist, Devil Wind Brewing, and Three Bines Hopped Bourbon – and emerge yourself in the Funk n’ Beer awesomeness inside one of Ohio’s premier venues. Two-day and single-day passes are still available HERE… Don’t miss out!
[MUSIC SCHEDULE + PREVIEW] – Columbus Funk n' Beer Festival (11/14-11/15)
