Daptone releases an anthology of ‘the best soul-funk outfit you’ve never heard of’

The World

There's a moment in the song "South Carolina" where you swear Munich-based soul-funksters the Poets of Rhythm really is not a German band.

You believe a narrative in which they're all black and from the southern US. 

Band co-founder Jan Weissenfeldt — his name literally translates to JJ Westfield, which he uses on stage (a good name for a soul-man) — first heard rapper Grandmaster Flash in the early 80s.From that moment, he went on a personal journey of discovery, working his way in reverse through the massive back-catalog of soul.

When he met soulmate, pun firmly intended, Bo Baral in school, the pair pooled their energies and talent and formed the Poets of Rhythm, the best soul-funk outfit you've never heard of.  New York retro-soul label Daptone has just released an anthology of the Poets' music, and it's pure ear candy.

Do you support journalism that strengthens our democracy?

At The World, we believe strongly that human-centered journalism is at the heart of an informed public and a strong democracy. We see democracy and journalism as two sides of the same coin. If you care about one, it is imperative to care about the other.

Every day, our nonprofit newsroom seeks to inform and empower listeners and hold the powerful accountable. Neither would be possible without the support of listeners like you. If you believe in our work, will you give today? We need your help now more than ever!