Galway funk and soul band Leon Stax Equation play SIGNS, a night celebrating the start of Spring and St. Brigid's Day at The Sugar Club, Dublin on 1 February. We asked front man Leon Stax aka Ben Duffy the BIG questions . . .
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The Leon Stax Equation have toured extensively in Ireland with concerts at Electric Picnic and Fuinneamh festivals, and more recently seven sold-out shows at Cork Jazz 2025.
This Spring, they play more live dates in Ireland, the UK and the US in support of their third album.
Tell us three things about yourself . . .
I am the second youngest of 10 children.
I was homeschooled through primary and secondary education years.
I am the drummer, lead singer and songwriter in the band.
How would you describe your music?
The Leon Stax Equation are a six-piece soul and funk band. Our music is inspired by soul, rock and jazz classics in a distinctly modern style.
Who are your musical inspirations?
The Leon Michels Affair, Holy Hive, Led Zeppelin, James Brown, The Black Keys, Khruangbin, The Menahan Street Band, Sharon Jones, Lee Fields but also lots of electronic music from people like St. Germain, Bonobo, Jitwam, Brian Witzig and DJ Shadow.
What was the first gig you ever went to?
I can't quite remember but I think it was Metallica, but mainly for their support act Tenacious D, in Marley Park.
What's your favourite song right now?
Tell Me Why? by Gotts Street Park feat. Olive Jones.
What was the first record you ever bought?
Machine Head by Deep Purple.
Favourite lyric of all time?
"Sing loud for the sunshine, Pray hard for the rain, Show your love to the lady nature, And she will come back again" - Led Zeppelin.
If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be?
OTD by Brad Stank.
Where can people find your music/more information?
Instagram @leon.stax, Bandcamp, our website.
Alan Corr
