Melbourne 10 piece outfit Mondo Freaks stay on their roll with “Won’t You Decide”, another irresistible piece of sophisticated funk, the third single they have released this year. It’s a taste of their forthcoming debut self-titled album, which has been announced for release on October 17th via their own Every Star Records.
Formed by the rhythm section of in demand session bassist Luke Hodgson and drummerGraeme Pogson (GL, The Bamboos) who were also both long time players with Harvey Sutherland, Mondo Freaks are the next artist ready to break out internationally from the world renowned Melbourne Soul scene, which has acts currently riding high like Hiatus Kaiyote, The Bamboos and Surprise Chef.
Originally conceived as a concept band, equipped with an ever-evolving setlist of late ’70s and early ’80s Funk classics, their journey has seen them invited to be the backing band for the Australian tours of such US Soul Music luminaries as Leroy Burgess (the producer and artist behind Boogie and Disco favourites Black Ivory, Logg, Aleem, Inner Life, and Universal Robot Band) and the iconic Evelyn “Champagne” King.
Vocals this time are handled by Aaron Mendoza, who is also one of two keyboard players in the band (and also one of their five vocalists) and was previously a core member of the much-missed Melbourne act Electric Empire. The lyrics to “Won’t You Decide” dive headfirst into a classic love dilemma. Leaving it all on the floor, this song is for anyone who’s ever danced through the confusion of “are we, or aren’t we?” A dynamic musical collaboration with bass player Luke Hodgson and drummer Graeme Pogson, Aaron recruited his brother, Darius, to add his unique twist to the song. Flirty, funky, and full of heart, this song keeps the vibe high even when emotions run deep.
Recalling the work of Kashif, the legendary vocalist, producer and songwriter who was behind the success of Evelyn “Champagne” King, Melba Moore and the start of Whitney Houston’s career, “Won’t You Decide” once again breathes new life into the golden sound of late ‘70s and early ‘80s Funk. But with songwriting and performances this strong the music transcends what would be mere homage into something truly timeless.
Following on from “I’m A Fool”, “Won’t You Decide” will be accompanied by a live video recorded at The Quadraphonic Club, proving why Mondo Freaks have such a formidable reputation in Melbourne’s furtive Soul scene.
The track along with the album was mixed by multi Grammy winner Michael Brauer who is known for working on recordings by the likes of Coldplay, Springsteen, Dylan, McCartney and Rolling Stones. But Mondos reminded him of the Rn’B records he started out working on in the late ’70s / early ’80s, which had huge influences on the band such as Change, B.B. & Q. Band, Was (Not Was), Gwen Guthrie, Grace Jones, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin, Pleasure, Cheryl Lynn, Cerrone, Jones Girls, Kid Creole,Teddy Pendegrass, Morris Day and many more.
Aaron Mendoza recalls how the song came together:
“Luke came around and we quickly found ourselves locking in together. I distinctly remember as I sung the pre-chorus idea, a quiet “Yes!” slowly whispered from behind. Luke and I were onto something. “Won’t You Decide” is a sensitive song but it makes you wanna dance at the same time. I love those kinds of songs! To be honest, it was the impetus that led to a burst of creativity for me. Ultimately resulting in co-writing more material for the album. An opportunity I will forever be grateful for.”
Mondo Freaks debut album started coming together during the long Melbourne COVID lockdown and recording ended up stretching over almost 12 months with snatches of time together during the brief windows in that time. Needless to say, the band have been itching to unleash it upon the world. Expect more tasters to be let out before October 17.
The band have been announced on the line up of the boutique Wonder Mountain Festival in Beechworth, outside of Melbourne, on September 6th alongside the likes of Ella Thompson, Wrong Way Up, Intermood, Mudrat, Danika and many more quality Melbourne artists. More Mondos live dates will be announced shortly.
Mondo Freaks “Won’t You Decide” is out now – Stream/Download: https://linktr.ee/mondofreaks
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