The Bamboos: Australia's Funk & Soul Powerhouse

The Bamboos are a celebrated Australian funk and soul band renowned for their dynamic live energy and studio precision. Formed in Melbourne in 2000, the group has become a cornerstone of the global funk revival, releasing critically acclaimed albums and collaborating with a stellar roster of international vocalists.

Early career

The band was founded by guitarist and principal songwriter Lance Ferguson. Initially conceived as a raw, instrumental quartet inspired by deep funk labels like Desco and Soul Fire, they quickly built a formidable local reputation. Their self-titled debut album arrived in 2004 on Ferguson's own label, Tru Thoughts, establishing their gritty, authentic sound.

Breakthrough

The Bamboos' breakthrough into mainstream consciousness came with their 2010 album 4, which debuted at number 22 on the Australian albums chart. This release, featuring the hit single On The Sly with vocalist Megan Washington, marked a shift toward more song-oriented material and wider commercial appeal. Their subsequent work continued to chart, solidifying their status as Australia's premier funk export.

Key tracks

On The Sly — This 2010 collaboration with Megan Washington became a radio staple, introducing the band to a broad pop audience.

I Got Burned — A driving, horn-heavy instrumental from their early period that remains a live set highlight.

Medicine Man — Featuring the powerful vocals of Tim Rogers, this track showcases their rock-tinged soul side.

Avenger — A later-period instrumental demonstrating their tight, cinematic funk production.

Helpless Blues — A standout from their "Fever In The Road" album featuring Aloe Blacc, highlighting their international soul collaborations.

Throughout the 2010s, The Bamboos expanded their sonic palette, working with luminaries like Bobby Flynn, Daniel Merriweather, and even hip-hop legend Lyrics Born. Their album Fever In The Road (2012) and The Rawest Of Them All (2020) demonstrate their range from polished soul to raw, instrumental funk. They have consistently released music on respected labels like Tru Thoughts and BMG, building a deep and influential catalog.

Fans of The Bamboos' energetic blend of classic funk and modern soul should also explore other Australian acts in the genre. The Putbacks deliver a similarly raw, instrumental funk sound rooted in deep groove. Hiatus Kaiyote explores more experimental, future-soul territories with complex rhythms. Cookin' On 3 Burners offer a potent mix of Hammond-driven funk and soul. Megan Washington, a key collaborator, brings a sophisticated pop sensibility to her own songwriting.

The music of The Bamboos is a regular feature on soul and funk radio stations, particularly those dedicated to the modern revivalist scene. Their tracks, both instrumental and vocal, are programmed on specialist funk shows, independent music radio stations, and online soul streams that champion tight musicianship and authentic groove.

Listeners can discover the powerful funk and soul catalog of The Bamboos on radio stations featured across our website. Tune in to stations available on onairium.com to hear their classic hits and deep cuts in regular rotation.