Michigan based funk-soul collective MIDTOWN UNDERGROUND was formed in the summer of 2002 in the art district of downtown Pontiac, Mi. Through informal jam sessions at an underground rehearsal studio and local clubs, the band and its sound expanded, with frequent guests from the Detroit music scene setting in. MU is known for their high energy and spontaneous live shows.Each member of the band encompasses a unique influence that shape the overall group sound. JAZZ, FUNK, SOUL, OLD SCHOOL HIP-HOP, R&B, TWANG AND ROCK are among the primary influences. The MU rhythm section serves as the engine room, providing kinetic energy for group improvisation. The versatile and roots oriented vocal approach embraces many styles and the experimental solo sections keep things interesting. Although the band takes great pride in paying homage to their musical heroes, the prevailing mindset is without question progressive.In 2005, MU published their first recording (available online through i-tunes, Amazon.com and CDbaby.com), a self titled EP that was intitially intended only for promotional use. The overwhelming fan-base response helped push the band to the forefront of the Metro Detroit Music scene. MU is now known as one of the top live acts playing in the Metro Detroit area, home for many of the worlds most outstanding and influential artists.Since then, the band has recieved several accolades including 3 Detroit Music Award nominations in the Urban/Funk category, headline performances at the top music festivals in the area ("Motor City Music Conference", "Motown Winter Blast", "Arts, Beats & Eats"), an appearance at the Funk showcase hosted by the Motor City Music Foundation , and most notably a spotlight performance for the 2007 DETROIT INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL.With this momentum, came new ideas and the band began laying tracks for their first full-length studio effort, the long anticipated album, "Somethin' Else". This new recording is planned for release in Summer 2008 and provides a snapshot of where MU has been and where they are going....THE MISSION: Innovation, Truth, Respect, Improvisation and Meaning.
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