Jungle is a vibrant British electronic music collective that fuses retro-funk, soul, and modern beats, captivating audiences with their infectious sound and dynamic live performances. Founded by childhood friends Josh Lloyd-Watson and Tom McFarland, they continue to evolve their artistry, recently welcoming Lydia Kitto and embracing a fresh direction with their latest album, *Volcano*.
Jungle is a dynamic British electronic music collective known for its vibrant blend of retro-funk and modern beats. Founded in London in 2013 by lifelong friends Josh Lloyd-Watson and Tom McFarland, the band quickly gained traction in the music scene with its infectious sounds and visually captivating performances.
Lloyd-Watson and McFarland have been close friends since childhood, both growing up in Shepherd's Bush, London, and attending Latymer Upper School. Before forming Jungle, they dabbled in music with an indie band called Born Blonde. Jungle emerged in early 2013, with the pair initially concealing their identities under the pseudonyms J and T.
Jungle's music is an eclectic mix of electronic, funk, soul, and disco. They are particularly recognized for their signature "midtempo 1970s-style funk," enriched by tropical percussion, falsetto vocals, and psychedelic layers. Their influences span artists like Quincy Jones, J Dilla, and Marvin Gaye, integrating these elements into a sound uniquely their own.
Albums:- Jungle (2014)- For Ever (2018)- Loving in Stereo (2021)- Volcano (2023)
Notable Singles:- "Platoon" (2013)- "The Heat" (2013)- "Busy Earnin'" (2014)- "Time" (2014)- "Heavy, California" (2018)- "Keep Moving" (2021)- "Back on 74" (2023)
The band’s debut album Jungle was shortlisted for the prestigious Mercury Prize in 2014, prompting a surge in international recognition. Their live performances—characterized by a multi-member ensemble and engaging dance routines—are celebrated at major festivals, including Glastonbury and Coachella. In 2021, they launched Caiola Records, securing creative independence for future projects.
Initially, their music was crafted in home studios but later evolved to include broader collaboration with other artists. Jungle’s vibrant live shows employ a seven-piece band, energy-laden performances, and visually arresting choreography, which immerses audiences worldwide.
In 2023, Lydia Kitto joined Jungle as a permanent member, enriching their musical journey and contributing to their latest album, Volcano. The album’s sound reflects their expanded interest in electronic elements and DJ culture, showing Jungle’s commitment to evolving their artistic expression continuously.
Jungle continues to enthrall audiences with their innovative fusion of past and present musical styles, maintaining both a nostalgic allure and a forward-thinking approach that captures the zeitgeist of today’s music scene.
