‍

‍

After a five-month break, Gerardo and Vic are back behind the mic, a little rusty, a little chaotic, but in full form. Season three of Inspire by Sound kicks off with a twist: shorter, split-format episodes that keep the same energy but with a sharper, more focused groove. “We’re not trying to overwhelm y’all with our lazy voices,” Vic jokes, setting the tone for what’s about to unfold, a smooth, funk-driven ride that bridges eras, cultures, and unexpected collaborations. From French grooves to Harlem house fusions and L.A. cosmic soul, this first mix feels like a global jam session you didn’t know you needed.

‍

Top Picks

Dirty Bossa – Varnish La Piscine
Gerardo opens the mix with pure French flair, Dirty Bossa by Varnish La Piscine, aka “Pink Flamingo.” A standout from the Super Waka Clique collective, Varnish embodies everything they love about modern funk: quirky basslines, playful structure, and moments that make you laugh mid-groove. “He didn’t need to add that ad-lib,” Vic says, “but he did, and that’s what makes it iconic.” The track dances between ‘70s-inspired swagger and new-school absurdity, reminding listeners that funk never dies, it just keeps reinventing itself.

‍

On Read – Austin Millz ft. Pell
By the time On Read slides in, the episode’s energy has shifted from nostalgia to movement. Harlem’s Austin Millz merges hip-hop bounce with electronic polish, proving why his sound has caught the attention of both underground heads and festival crowds. Gerardo highlights his background, a journalism grad who turned full-time producer, earning placements with G.O.O.D. Music and Maybach Music. “He found his pocket,” Vic says. And that’s exactly it: Austin Millz creates a lane that feels equal parts uptown grit and rooftop party.

‍

Supernova – Sunni Colon
To close the first half of this two-part premiere, Gerardo and Vic spotlight Supernova by Sunni Colon, a lush, glowing closer from the L.A. singer-songwriter-producer whose credits include Insecure, Dear White People, and Ballers. His work bridges neo-soul with cinematic polish, and this track, in particular, holds weight. “He’s got that KAYTRANADA touch,” Vic adds. Both hosts agree: this one isn’t just a vibe; it’s artistry. As Gerardo sums up, “It’s melody, it’s mood, it’s motion.”

‍
The first episode back lands like a deep breath, funky, loose, and layered with stories behind the sound. Gerardo and Vic close by teasing the second half of their funk journey, promising more grooves, more discovery, and no shortage of laughter. “Five months off and we’re back,” Vic says, “still doing this for the love of it.” Inspire by Sound Season 3 is off and running.

‍