If James Brown is the Godfather of Soul, The Meters are without a doubt the Forefathers of Funk.

Foundation of Funk is the newest project from the legendary Original Meters’ rhythm section, Zigaboo Modeliste & George Porter Jr. The new project will see the influential duo team with select players who have carried on the funk and jam tradition to pay homage to The Meters catalog in a unique collaborative form.

Each round of Foundation of Funk shows will feature a different cast of special guests alongside Zig and George diving into the extensive catalog of Meters’ tunes to create a truly unique Meters experience from show to show.

Funk is an American tradition born in the same house as Jazz. Continuing this tradition are veterans Soulive. I had the pleasure of attending one of two shows this past snowy weekend at Cervantes in Denver. Supported by yet another long time vet George Porter Jr. of The Meters brought out his side project Runnin’ Pardners. This evening was filled with bright, colorful and energetic music.

This night was a party, and who could be surprised by that with the amount of talent at Cervantes Masterpiece Ballroom on this night. There were three bands and three painters that created an electric dance space under the giant disco ball to kick off the holiday festivities. The famous Frenchy, Scramble Campbell, and John Bukaty lined their canvas side by side on the left side of the stage and prepared for a night of sheer artistry.

So many legendary touring acts continue to play and perform on the fortune of their loyal fans coming to see their shows. Stalwarts of the scene know that getting on the road and playing as often as possible is the lifeblood of continuity. Year after year, summer after summer, fans travel to see Phish, Widespread Panic, whatever incarnation of the Dead, and on and on. It’s refreshing when great lesser-worshiped acts get their chance to build a fan base, especially with the support of old mainstay bands.