Tough Latin and Brazilian grooves....and I’m loving it - Craig Charles, BBC Radio 6 Music
The Fontanas are a London-based funk and soul collective celebrated for their lively fusion of Latin, Brazilian, and Afro-funk influences. The group brings together a flexible cast of musicians — brass, percussion, keys, guitar, bass and more — unified by a mission to deliver joyous, dance-driven music that channels both vintage grooves and contemporary energy.
Their debut album, Purple Patch, released in 2015, introduced their signature sound: tight funk rhythms imbued with Brazilian percussion and brass, producing short, punchy tracks that feel like a “carnival come early.” The album was recorded in a storied studio once owned by a rock legend, giving it a blend of vintage warmth and modern polish.
In 2021, The Fontanas returned with their sophomore full-length record, The Luxury Of Time — an album born out of the slow-down of lockdown, reflecting both introspection and celebratory energy. The record spans soulful male and female vocals, Latin-inflected grooves, and a varied palette: from funk and reggae-tinged tracks to steel-drum-laced rhythms and even music-hall-flavoured songs.
Fronted by powerful vocals from singer Kay Elizabeth, and shaped by producer / songwriter Sam Fontanas, the band includes a rotating cast of London-based musicians whose combined talents help the group cross genres seamlessly. Over the years, The Fontanas have built their reputation chiefly through spirited live performances, becoming a staple on the UK and European festival circuit. Their shows — often described as “feel-good,” “uplifting,” and “funk to the fullest” — have struck a chord with fans of funk, soul, Latin and dance music alike.
In short, The Fontanas represent a melting pot of soul, funk, Latin and Brazilian flavours — a collective constantly evolving, but always grounded in groove, rhythm and dance.
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