The 8 Beat Quartet: The Powerhouse of Modern Funk & Soul

The 8 Beat Quartet is a dynamic British funk and soul ensemble known for their explosive live energy and studio precision. Hailing from London, the group achieved notable commercial success with their 2018 album 'Resonance Frequency,' which charted in the UK Top 40 and spawned several certified Gold singles.

Early career

The 8 Beat Quartet officially formed in 2012, though its core members had been collaborating on the London jazz-funk circuit for years prior. Their self-released 2014 EP, 'The First Groove,' quickly sold out its initial vinyl run, catching the attention of independent label Soulful Thinking Records.

This early partnership led to their debut full-length album, 'Urban Echoes,' in 2016. The record established their signature sound: a tight, rhythm-forward blend of classic soul with modern production, earning them a dedicated following across Europe's festival scene.

Breakthrough

The band's major breakthrough arrived in 2018 with their sophomore album, 'Resonance Frequency.' Released on the larger imprint Funkwave International, the album debuted at number 32 on the UK Albums Chart. Its lead single, 'Get to the Good Part,' received heavy radio rotation and was certified Gold in the UK for sales exceeding 400,000 units.

This success was solidified by a relentless international touring schedule and prominent sync placements in television and film. The 8 Beat Quartet's reputation grew as a must-see live act, known for their extended improvisational jams and impeccable musicianship.

Key tracks

Get to the Good Part — This Gold-certified single from 2018 became their signature anthem and a staple on funk and soul playlists worldwide.

Midnight Drive — A showcase for the band's instrumental prowess, this track from 'Resonance Frequency' highlights their sophisticated arrangements and groove-centric approach.

Steady Rise — Featuring vocalist Lianne La Havas, this 2020 collaboration broadened their audience and demonstrated their versatility within the modern soul genre.

Brass in Pocket — Their energetic cover of The Pretenders' classic, released as a standalone single, became a surprise hit on alternative rock radio stations in 2021.

The group's third album, 2022's 'Continuous Pulse,' debuted even higher on the charts and included collaborations with artists like Cory Henry and Tom Misch. Their consistent output and vibrant live shows have cemented their status as leading figures in the contemporary funk revival. The New Mastersounds share a similar foundation in instrumental funk and a prolific release schedule. Smoke Fairies explore a different, folk-infused side of the UK's rich soul and blues landscape. The James Hunter Six also deliver a masterclass in vintage-inspired soul and R&B with a modern touch.

The music of The 8 Beat Quartet is a regular feature on a wide array of radio stations, from dedicated funk and soul channels to broader classic rock FM stations and eclectic online radio streams that champion groove-based music.

Listeners can discover the vibrant catalog of The 8 Beat Quartet by tuning into the funk, soul, and classic rock radio stations featured and available for listening on onairium.com.