There’s a new band on television! Mashing up funk, rap, and their own distinct brand of positive vibes. You can catch them every Wednesday night on Food Network’s new show “Guy’s Ultimate Game Night,” where celebrities compete, laugh, dance, and congregate around culinary-themed party games. And it’s all for the charities of their choice!! But who’s this band that’s the life of the party? Who is Sophistafunk? “The unstoppable Funk Hip Hop dance party” From underground shows to international festivals, Sophistafunk has been described as “Rage Against the Machine meets The Roots, dipped in P-Funk.” They’ve also become widely known on the touring circuit as a rare Hip Hop meets live electronic jam band, performing multiple sets at Electric Forest and Camp Bisco (USA), as well as BoomTown and Shambala (UK), to name a few. They’re well known from New York to New Orleans, and have particularly strong followings in California, Colorado, Michigan, New England, and the Great Northwest, among others.  After celebrity chef Guy Fieri became a fan of the band, he invited Sophistafunk to perform at many of his events and private parties around the country, including at the Super Bowl in Tempe, AZ. The band even appeared twice on his TV show “Diners, Drive-ins, & Dives.” They were also featured as the house band for four episodes of “Guy’s Grocery Games” and in 2020 premiered a music video on Food Network’s “Triple D: Takeout Edition.” Sophistafunk’s multi-year relationship with Fieri culminated in the invite of a lifetime: to be regular cast members on his brand new game show!! Add a little funk, and “Guy’s Ultimate Game Night” was born! The rest is history. The band is rooted in undeniable musicianship and authenticity, blending intoxicating beats with mind-expanding flows. Mad scientist Adam Gold is known for his heavy synth basslines and funky vocals. He plays four vintage keyboards at the same time, sometimes even while beatboxing! Gospel trained drummer and singer Emanuel Washington combines neo-soul with deep house, reggae, and more. Frontman / emcee Jack Brown evokes comparisons from Mac Miller to Michael Frantí, but his lyrical skill and conscious vibes are truly one of a kind. The band also features musical guests, ranging from brass instruments to guitars, turntablists, female singers, & other surprises. Lately, they’ve been touring with sax powerhouse Tommy Weeks of the Funky Dawgz Brass Band. Sophistafunk is for music lovers. Through the years, they’ve become one of the most exhilarating and fulfilling live music experiences around. They blend genres as a broader analogy for people coming together, leaving audiences with an undeniable  afterglow of funky positivity. For years, Sophistafunk has been pioneers on the live music circuit, unafraid to push boundaries with their sounds and their messages. And now the whole world is finding out.  Catch a show, and join the party!

Pearly Baker’s Best is a Grateful Dead tribute with both a weekly residency and a devoted following at one of the top local venues in Syracuse, NY every Monday night. Playing the music of The Grateful Dead, The Jerry Garcia Band, The Beatles and other covers they delight their devout followers with a powerful show once a week out of the band’s current song list which tops 180 songs. The band’s strong improvisational foundation leads the way, allowing their sets to be visualized much like weaving a tapestry; each thread of verse, chorus or bridge is expertly weaved into the fabric of their sound and playing to be completely embraced by their audience. Also, careful attention is always given to ensuring that each song is treated with the necessary vocal ingredients to cause the listener to be drawn into the music at the deepest level. The band’s desire is to provide each audience member with a ‘Grateful Dead-like experience,’ allowing them to encounter the show as a translational, musical undertaking. Currently PBB can go 9 shows without repeating a song and is always adding to it's ever expanding catalog of 200 songs which includes original songs on occasion. The band does play shows in addition to their weekly residency in Syracuse, all across New York State. The band has begun to incorporate original music into their sets and recently had the privilege of sharing their stage with David Gans; long-time archivist for the Grateful Dead, broadcaster, song writer and music journalist. David expressed a strong desire to share the stage with Pearly Baker’s again in the near future. There is truly nothing like a Pearly Baker’s Best show. 

Ben Blujus plays an energetic blend of Rock, Reggae, Funk and Blues. Ben has played around Central New York in bands such as Spring Street, BSG, Ben and Sarah, Sons of Grunge and many more projects!

Charley Orlando is a musician with a reputation that precedes him. With an impressive 28 Grammy Ballot nominations, 18 releases, and more than 30 years of national touring status, he has cemented his place as an influential and respected musicians in the industry. Born and raised in Capitol District area of NY, Charley developed a passion for music from a young age. He started playing the guitar at the age of eight and quickly discovered a natural talent for songwriting. By the time he was in his teens, he was already performing at local venues and making a name for himself in the music scene. Throughout his career, Charley has released 18 albums, each one showcasing his incredible musicianship and songwriting abilities. His music is a unique blend of blues, folk, and rock, with heartfelt lyrics that resonate with audiences around the world. Charley's live performances are inspiring, and he has spent more than three decades on the road, touring extensively throughout the United States and beyond. His shows are a true testament to his talent, as he effortlessly transitions between guitar, harmonica, and vocals, captivating audiences with his raw energy and emotion. His music has touched the lives of countless fans, and he continues to inspire a new generation of musicians with his incredible talent and dedication to his craft.