Mondo Freaks - Bells Are Ringing (EP)
‘Bells Are Ringing’ is the new EP from Melbourne’s 10-piece Funk outfit Mondo Freaks, due for release on 28th March 2025. Formed originally as a concept band, equipped with an ever-evolving setlist of late ‘70s and early ‘80s Funk classics, their journey has seen them invited to be the backing band for the Australian tours of such luminaries as Leroy Burgess (the producer and artist behind Boogie and Disco favourites Black Ivory, Logg, Aleem, Inner Life, and Universal Robot Band) and the iconic Evelyn "Champagne" King. Having performed at the iconic local Meredith Music, Golden Plains and Panama festivals and at numerous residencies Mondo Freaks have carved their mark, returning now to ring in a new era of groove-soaked original music.
The band revolves around the rhythm section of in-demand session bassist Luke Hodgson and drummer Graeme Pogson (GL, The Bamboos). Gathering some of the finest musicians from Melbourne’s legendary Soul scene, they’re accompanied by five incredible vocalists including Jade McRae, Susie Goble (who share vocals on “Bells Are Ringing”), Francisco Tavares, Aaron Mendoza and Jason Heerah.
‘Bells Are Ringing’ was mixed by Grammy-winning producer Michael Brauer, who is renowned for his work with The Rolling Stones, Coldplay and Paul McCartney but who jumped at the chance to work with Mondos as their music reminded him of the vintage Funk and R'n'B records that he started his career mixing decades ago by the likes Luther Vandross, Change, Gwen Guthrie, Aretha Franklin and Grace Jones. The EP is a crisp collection of sophisticated Funk, with the title track radiating infectious songwriting, and soulful vocals that float seamlessly over ropey basslines. The video for the track features the band playing on a TV soundstage, shot on warm and glorious Betacam.
Meanwhile, the accompanying track ‘Find A Way’ hits straight away with a percussion and synth hook, blending Jade McCrae’s vocal delivery with an uplifting message about finding hope in trying times. The release will also feature a vocal and Dub remix of “Bells Are Ringing” by fellow Melburnian and heralded producer and DJ Harvey Sutherland (who has previously produced and remixed works for the likes of Disclosure, Khruangbin, BadBadNotGood). Tightening its hold on the dancefloor, the beefed-up rhythm section rolls deep into the nocturnal hours, as mesmerising reverb loops elevate the track skywards. Luke and Graeme got to know Harvey Sutherland when they played together backing Leroy Burgess in 2018. After that they played in his live band across the world and then contributed to his ‘BOY’ album.
“We were thrilled when he turned in his Dub of “Bells””, Luke said. “A kind of 'what would Shep Pettibone or Larry Levan do?' moment. It's like being transported to Compass Point Studios in ‘81!"
In the studio and in their full live lineup Mondo Freaks are a formidable ensemble who take their sound beyond mere homage, without a hint of irony or any knowing winks. Mondo Freaks simply breathe life into a timeless sound and make it feel more relevant than ever.