The Bamboos (funk band)

The Bamboos are an Australian funk and soul band formed in Melbourne, Victoria in 2000. Led by guitarist Lance Ferguson, the band is known for its authentic interpretations of 1960s and 1970s funk and soul, as well as original compositions.

The Bamboos' lineup has varied over the years, but Ferguson has remained the central figure. Key collaborators have included singers Kylie Auldist and Ella Thompson, who have both contributed significantly to the band's distinctive sound.

The band's music is characterized by its tight rhythm section, soaring horn arrangements, and powerful vocals. They draw heavily from the traditions of American funk and soul artists such as James Brown, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, and The Meters, while also incorporating elements of jazz, Latin, and Afrobeat.

The Bamboos have released numerous albums, including "Step It Up" (2006), "Side-Stepper" (2008), "4" (2012), "Fever in the Road" (2013), "The Rules of Attraction" (2015), "Night Time People" (2018), and "Hard Up" (2021). Their music has been featured in film and television, and they have toured extensively both in Australia and internationally.

The Bamboos have received critical acclaim for their musicianship and commitment to preserving the legacy of classic funk and soul music. They are considered one of Australia's leading funk and soul acts and have helped to popularize the genre in the country.