Press Release: Dumpstaphunk has been forging a new path for funk music ever since the masters of New Orleans groove burst onto the stage at the 2003 Jazz & Heritage Festival. Today, in support of their new full-length album, Dirty Word (July 2013, Louisiana Red Hot Records), Dumpstaphunk brings their heavy-hitting party funk to life for the first time on film, announcing the music video debut of “Dancin’ To The Truth.”
The video represents a nostalgic nod to the spirit of New Orleans’ renowned street celebrations and the symbolism of the Crescent City, coupled with a modern edge delivered from the front row of a Dumpstaphunk concert.
“Every time Dumpstaphunk performs that song, we dedicate it to all the music lovers out there,” keyboardist and vocalist Ivan Neville explained. “We’re talking about the healing power and the righteousness of music, and where better to celebrate that spirit than in New Orleans?”
True to the track, the “Dancin’ To The Truth” video couples archival footage of Mardi Gras Indians and candid images of locals dancing in the streets, with live clips from a Dumpstaphunk performance at the Howlin’ Wolf during 2013’s Mardi Gras celebrations. Its abstract interpretation intends to place the viewer within that experience, providing a brief translation of what it might be like to let loose with Dumpstaphunk down in New Orleans.
“The video reiterates that music is the truth. We are fortunate that there’s still an audience out there that wants to hear music like this, from real musicians playing it live,” Neville added. “But we also left a lot to the imagination, so that people can feel that groove and let it take them wherever they want.”
Production on the “Dancin’ To The Truth” video was spearheaded by Silverback and Hubtuit, with archival footage provided by local cinematographer Jay Newby (Big Chief Films).
Additional footage by Jeff Pilskin (Raised Fist Propaganda) and Andrew L. Anthony (Best Coast Productions). Final edits, post production and special effects provided by Andrew L. Anthony (Best Coast Productions). Additional special effects by Motohiro Nezu.
