WURK

Wurk is a funk-fusion group from Madison, WI, described by Isthmus Magazine as "summer-jam-perfect". Wurk's style encompasses several genres, with clear influences from bands like Snarky Puppy, Thundercat, Umphrey's McGee, Tauk, The Motet, Herbie Hancock, Weather Report, The Meters, and many more. Their sound seeks to employ a musically educated yet groovy "Big City" tone. With songwriting by guitarist/vocalist, Frank Laufenberg, Wurk fills the gap between complexity and groove. Max Morkri, a 2018 MAMA award nominee for Instrumentalist of the Year on drum set, drives the band with his blend of solid grooving and intricate chops. Coupled with Max's drumming, Casey Seymour delivers powerful bass lines which pull the band together. Ryley Buchanan (synth/organ), Daniel Haschke (saxophone/flute) and Carl Hipenbecker (trumpet) add to Wurk's complexity with horn lines, effects, and impressive solos. Most of Wurk's members grew up in Mount Horeb, Wisconsin, just west of Madison. Their shared background creates the band's closeness on stage and their ability to communicate musically. Wurk released two EPs in 2017 ( Wurk, Broken Disco); their third EP, The Devil's Wurk, will be released in mid-2018. This event is intended for UW-Madison students, faculty, staff, Wisconsin Union members and their guests. Anyone can become a  Wisconsin Union member .