Lunar Funk Theory

Sioux Falls local group, Lunar Funk Theory, is a true testament of a group’s ability to display their environment through music. Within minutes of chatting with the talented members of the group, one is immediately initiated into a family of inside jokes and genuine smiles; characteristics they display throughout their performance as well.
As I sit with the band in a small corner of their rehearsal space, it’s hard to gain the commanding lead of an interviewer. The space is a clear marker of LFT territory with show posters lining one wall, numerous tapestries hung about the room, and colorful lights and lava lamps illuminating the dark corners. Several members pass around a bag of wine, while others make small conversation about a new guitar riff or the latest light show improvements. With nearly a dozen members, the group feels less like a band and more like a camp; a collective of musicians and technical professionals that live and breathe their art.
That patchwork of influences and passion is clearly exhibited in their musk. The group transitions between reggae, soul, funk, and rock melodies throughout their set. With heavy breakdowns to wailing guitar solos, psychedelic effects to jazzy intermissions, and a seizure-inducing light show, the group transforms a concert into an experience.
LFT consists of seven artists: Lee Walsh on lead vocals and rhythm guitar, Tanner Farmen on drums, Matthew Summers on lead guitar, Angie Walsh on keys and vocals, Dan Finch on bass, Chris Cook on auxiliary percussion, and Alex Olsen on keys. But the band also has a group of people taking care of production and business work that assist in making the trip go smoothly.
The idea and progression of LFT has been happening for over seven years, and the goals keep advancing along with them. Though the group sticks to what is known as ‘weekend warriors,” mainly touring three days a week as needed, they have become a staple in regional music. The thing that particularly prides the band is their ability to stay afloat financially, which even some three-piece bands struggle with.
With a group this large, it may be hard to imagine a constructive practice, let alone an easy interview. All members will agree there are pluses and minuses to such a big crew, but what it really comes down to is communication.
“Everyone is really in different spots, so it adds a great dynamic to the music,” said Olsen. “At the same time, it adds a sort of simplicity. It helps you to be able to communicate ideas. If you can’t explain them to your own bandmates, how is your
audience supposed to get it?”
The practices clearly pay off, as their live shows are seamless and full of life. The stage presence between all members is ideal; the vigor flowing from the stage to the audience members in lively fashion. Starting with toe tapping and head-bobbing to the first song, by the end viewers are sweaty from dancing and euphoric from having an all-around great time. As long as that power is backing them, LET will always be evolving.
“It doesn’t matter what or where you’re playing,” said Summers, ‘as long as that energy is there. You can always adapt to your environment.”
Lunar Funk Theory will be opening for the legendary George Clinton and the Parliament Funkadelic on August 19. The all-ages show will be at the Ramkota Exhibit Hall, with doors opening at 7p.m. All tickets are general admission.

- 605 Magazine