Guitarist-composer, Darrin James formed Disaster Relief to provide an outlet from the negativity and seriousness of the political and social climate of the last few years. Their upbeat, horn-driven music draws inspiration from New Orleans funk, Memphis soul, Motown, Afrobeat, Balkan rhythms and increasingly more flavors from around the globe. Their 2018 eponymous debut album received praise for it’s “greasy…open yet poignant funk jams and feel good ethos” (Paul Naser, Allaboutjazz) as well as the stellar musicianship displayed by the group’s playing, which alternates between tightly composed melodies, intense solo sections, complex syncopated rhythms, and free improvisation. This combination of group interplay and extended soloing contributes to the band’s reputation for live shows that become energetic dance parties. On Back Into It, Disaster Relief’s second full length album, they expand their sonic palette to include even more “world” music influences such as the song, Kalamatianós for Alexander, based on a Greek wedding dance rhythm or Weekend Čoček, which turns the classic Balkan dance into a psychedelic, retro surf-rock jam. In 2021 Disaster Relief released a collaboration with Thornetta Davis, Detroit’s own “Queen of the Blues,” for a two song single, How I Feel, which bridges the funkier sounds of Disaster Relief with the Detroit icon’s distinctive, bluesy soul.