Bubonik Funk began about six years ago when four guys got together and found common ground through their love of music. Despite attending high school and college, the band has stayed together through its ups and downs. They performed whenever they had the chance, and now that they are a full-time band, they’re coming to The Whiskey. 

The name Bubonik Funk came about during a high school history class. Stefan Kallander, the guitarist and manager, was learning about the Bubonic Plague and decided to get creative with it. The name has stuck ever since. 

“The name really applies to a lot of things, both musically and theoretically,” Kallander said. “We have funk seep into everything we do.”

Funk has certainly influenced the band’s music, a unique mixture of dance, soul and rock. But the front man, Dylan Ellett, claimed that they aren’t your typical funk band.

“It’s very dance-y, about a groove,” Ellett said. “Melodies are very important.”

You can expect that unique feel when the band comes into town. They plan on playing new tunes that Wilmington has never heard before.

“It’ll be more of a performance and less of a show,” Ellett said. “It’s a blend of music, theater, partying and community.”

In this industry, it’s difficult to stand out, but Bubonik Funk has succeeded in doing so. Each member draws from one another’s vast, but different, taste in music. No two members listen to the same genre, which allows the group to produce far from clichéd tunes. 

“One of the main things is that we all, as individual musicians, come from unique places,” Kallander said. “We draw from creative things and compromise ideas.”

Bubonik Funk’s distinctive feel mixes well with Wilmington’s artistic atmosphere. They’ve performed here many times over the past three years, even having a sold out show. The community feel of Wilmington presents the band with interactive audience members who not only attend the shows, but also become part of it.

“The ability to be extroverted and have a pulpit for expression is what inspires me with music,” said Ellett.

You can see Bubonik Funk perform at The Whiskey downtown Nov. 3 at 9pm. You can also check out their website or Facebook page.