Dynamic Pennsylvania-based funk / jazz band Yam Yam has officially dropped their latest single, "Local on the 8s." Inspired by the smooth jazz rhythms that soundtrack The Weather Channel's local forecast segments, this new track promises to be a hit among fans of the genre and new listeners alike.
"Local on the 8s" was recorded at Progressive Studios in Elizabethtown, PA, under the experienced guidance of veteran producer Marshall Deasy. The track features a standout trumpet solo from acclaimed musician Michael Burton.
“This song was inspired by the soothing music featured on The Weather Channel during their Local on the 8s special, hence the name. I think so many of us out there grew up subconsciously listening to that type of music on the Weather Channel while waiting for the local forecast, that it became almost natural for us to do our own take on it. Believe it or not, there’s actually a pretty big online community who love to listen to old Weather Channel songs, so we hope our inspired-take can give them a fresh new song to listen to.” – Tyler “Kokko” Fuller (drums)
“‘Local on the 8s’ is our latest single from our upcoming third album “slurp slurp”. This song incorporates aspects of hip-hop, funk and jazz into a chill but upbeat feel that exudes a perfect summertime jam, with the vibes of the summer breeze and the funk that you need to keep groovin’. This one features a trumpet solo from our fellow musician and friend, Michael Burton that echoes the spirit of the great Donald Byrd. ‘Local on the 8’s' is sure to leave you satisfied but craving more Yams.” – Michael Dempsey, (keys / vocals).
Accompanying the video is a cheeky music video, featuring a retro TV set tuning in to Yam Yam performing “Local on the 8s” live in studio.
WATCH | Local on the 8s Music Video
About Yam Yam
Formed in 2015 by a group of like minded musicians, Pennsylvania-based quintet Yam Yam channels a love of classic soul, New Orleans jazz, and vintage funk into a high-energy and dynamically charged sonic experience. Collectively fluent in the jazz idiom, the band - Mike Dempsey (keys), Tom Fuller (guitar), Tyler Fuller (drums), Xander Moppin (bass), and Jason Mescia (saxophone), possesses an ebullient, intuitive knack for songwriting, crafting unforgettable music that is both timeless and contemporary. The virtuosic collective allows each live performance to unfold as its own unique experience, using adept improvisation to explore an ever-growing catalog of original songs.
Described by NEPA Scene as “...true innovators of their craft,” Yam Yam balances a relentless touring schedule with an uncompromising commitment to brilliant studio work. Recent projects have garnered universal acclaim - Double Dippin’ (released 2021) arrived at number 9 on the Billboard Jazz Albums Chart, and the band’s eponymous debut project Yam Yam (released 2018) landed at number 17.
In 2020, Yam Yam was awarded Best Blues/Funk Band by The Central Pennsylvania Music Awards, and has subsequently delivered jaw-dropping performances at some of the nation’s premier music festivals, including Scranton, PA’s The Peach Music Festival, and Chillicothe, IL’s Summer Camp Music Festival. Well-received supporting sets for touring veterans Pigeons Playing Ping Pong, Andy Frasco and the U.N., and Lotus have positioned the band as one of the most sought-after acts in a northeast scene brimming with talent.
Leading with authenticity and fueled by an unparalleled work ethic and passion for performance, Yam Yam shows no signs of slowing down in 2024.
For more information, please visit yamyamband.com.
