This post is one that's long overdue.  About a month ago I came across the Bandcamp page of a group called Ripe.  In the time that has passed from that fateful day to now, Ripe have become an obsession.  They are, at their core, a pop band. That sweet, sweet, pop music is wrapped in a delightfully funky/jammy/ska-like package that is just irresistible.  Its's the kind of music that invades your brain and plays on repeat weather you like it or not.  The kind of music where you find yourself dancing at work and singing in the shower.  These guys are the real deal. Unfortunately as of the writing of this post the only available music they have are two short EPs. I cannot stress enough how good every track on both are. Obviously I have become a giddy fanboy for Ripe so I will just post some live (from the studio) videos and let them speak for themselves. Enjoy!

For those that haven't heard of Thundercat he is a funky bass magician, somewhat like this generation's Bootsy Collins. He has been gaining a massive fan base from the likes of listeners and musicians alike, most recently as the man behind Kendrick Lamar's highly acclaimed To Pimp A Butterfly.  It's Thundercat's solo work where he really shines though.  His most recent single "Them Changes" is one of those indescribably catchy songs. With the help of an Isley Brothers drum sample, Thundercat soulfully sings about heartbreak and loss while perfectly juxtaposed to a video of a modern day samurai who loses his arms to a superior swordsman.

Check out The Dip, a huge funky soul like band

Los Angeles based instrumental-rock/funk band VULFPECK is so fun if they can't get you head bobbing, nothing can. Check out their song "Wait for the Moment" which also features Antwaun Stanley on vocals for more groovy beats as well.

Hailing from Birmingham, AL St. Paul and the Broken Bones are bad to the bone. This boy can sing, and it's impossible not to get swept up in how good he does it. Unfortunately all they have released is an EP to date, but keep an eye on this talented group. Big things are coming.

Like Hip-hop? How about weed? Well my friend this album is for you! Amen For Weed/ Hi-Life is a FREE album over at Bandcamp is a collection of Copenhagen artists expressing their love of the sticky icky. Take a nice sample hit below. It's pretty dope! (Look I made a pun!)

What better song for the official start of the summer than a song about the ice cream man? Hailing from Vancouver, Five Alarm Funk is a high energy ska/funk band whose sound is just plain fun.  Here for your viewing pleasure is their newest track/video "We All Scream".

Caught A Ghost has a great retro/soul vibe going on. If they keep it up, you may be looking at the next breakout band in 2013. Check out the "Somehow" video below, and sign up for their mailing list for free downloads.

In keeping with the current theme of retro videos and classic soul remixes check out this little diddy by London based producer, Bo Saris.  The sample track is a Maya Jane Coles remix coming from his She's On Fire single due out July 16th. 

Check out this funky little jammer off Lotus's latest self-titled effort.  The Song is called "Bush Pilot" and features some downright fun drum, horn, and string arrangements.  If you like what ya hear hit up the link below to grab Lotus in the format of your choice via Bandcamp.  Enjoy!

 Check out this awesome jazz-funk cut from Pushin Wood & Renegades of Jazz.  Here's the lowdown: 

"During a crazy night session Pushin Wood & Renegades Of Jazz teamed up to create the massive tune "Little Hurricane", an uptempo dancefloorshaker with screaming organ and massive brass action ending in a drummer's madness." 

Get your boogie on kids! And don't forget to stop by iTunes and grab their Ep!