I really wish I had got my hands on this sooner! The latest release from FUNNY MONEY, “STICK IT!”, can only be described as energetic, fun and filled with attitude… but what else would you expect from a band fronted by former KIX vocalist Steve Whiteman? At this point, it’s actually a little strange still labeling Steve with the KIX tag since FUNNY MONEY has been together now for almost a decade, but I guess it’s always worth a mention to pay homage to the band that produced the 1988 classic “BLOW MY FUSE” and hits like “Cold Blood,” “Blow My Fuse,” and the timeless ballad “Don’t Close Your Eyes.”
Since its formation, with the exception of Whiteman himself, FUNNY MONEY has gone through several incarnations. The latest of which includes former CENTERFOLD guitarist Rob Galpin and the rhythm section of bassist Mark Schenker and drummer Jimmy Chalfant… those names sound familiar? They should if you’re a KIX fan as they were both in the band at one time or another and are more than familiar with Whiteman’s distinctive style and antics.
Plain and simple, FUNNY MONEY has been able to pick right up from where KIX left off. Tracks like “Slow The Blow” and the opening track “By The Balls” are hard hitting, in-your-face rockers in the vein of KIX’s “No Ring Around Rosie” while “Weeds and Roses” and “Big Bam Boom” have more of a bluesy feel
to them.
“Fool’s Confession” is really interesting because it almost has the vibe of STEELY DAN’s “Midnight Cruiser.” Not that it sounds like STEELY DAN, but if you listen real close, you can definitely hear hints of that rhythm and arrangement.
“Thousand Thanks Yous” could be considered the releases only ballad… although its lyrics suggest more of an homage to the fans rather than your typical love theme. Then there’s “All Tied Up” which I really like for its underlying melody, guitar riff and overall groove and finally “Hot On Your Heels,” “Play Me Like A Rhythm,” “Crush,” and “About Women” are all solid, mid-tempo rockers which remain consistent with that whole overall KIX style.
KIX fans are absolutely going to LOVE this and “STICK IT!” has everything you’ve come to expect from Steve Whiteman. It’s great to see you back, Steve, and you’ve once again proven you’re still one of the most explosive and energetic front men in the business. From the dynamic hooks & melodies to the sometimes “suggestive” lyrics, “STICK IT!” is a welcomed addition to any rockers CD collection.
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Band Lineup:
- Steve Whiteman - Lead Vocals
- Jimmy Chalfant - Drums, Percussion
- Mark Schenker - Bass
- Rob Galpin - Guitars
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Track Listing:
- By The Balls
- Hot On Your Heels
- Crush
- Big Bang Boom
- All Tied Up
- Fool’s Confession
- Slow The Blow
- Nowhere At All
- Play Me Like A Rhythm
- Thousand Thank Yous
- Weeds & Roses
- About Women
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