Soul, funk shine at Crystal Bay Casino

Bay Area-based R&B funk group The California Honeydrops is bringing its blend of soul, funk and blues to Tahoe this weekend with a gig you won’t want to miss.

“The California Honeydrops don’t just play music — they throw parties,” states the band’s online biography. “Whether playing for audiences of thousands or in intimate venues where they can leave the stage and get down on the dance floor, the California Honeydrops’ shared vision and purpose remain: to make the audience dance and sing.”

And that vision has extended to many venues, including tours throughout North America, Europe and Australia and appearances alongside musicians like B.B. King and Buddy Guy.

The California Honeydrops’ journey began on the streets of San Francisco, but founder Lech Wierzynski planted the band’s roots while growing up in Poland.

“Later, as a first generation immigrant to the U.S. and child of political refugees, he assimilated himself by devouring American rock & roll, soul, jazz and hip-hop recordings,” continues the bio.

The band — which also includes drummer Ben Malament, saxophone player Johnny Bones, Lorenzo Loera on keys and bassist Beau Bradbury — has released five projects since its conception. The latest album, “A River’s Invitation,” debuted in 2015.

The California Honeydrops takes the stage at Crystal Bay Casino on Friday, Dec. 15, at 9 p.m.

Tickets (which can be purchased through the venue’s website) cost $25 in advance and $30 on the day of the show. Learn more online at http://www.crystalbaycasino.com.

— Lake Tahoe Action