BullShark ready to bring the funk

There's only one act at Morristown's Got Talent drawing inspiration from the SyFy film "Sharknado" and that's BullShark, the funk, soul and R&B group who chose their name after discussing the film.

"On the way to a concert somehow 'Sharknado' came about in conversation," said band member Brian Connolly. "Although we hadn't seen the film, we decided it was 'bull.' In that moment it clicked for us, and BullShark was born."

A giant fiberglass BullShark has been hanging in the band's studio as inspiration ever since.

The five-member band also features Jake Miller-Hoesly, Ken Kirsh, Mike Slaff, and Nando Griffiths.

"Our goal is to bring soulful music to the masses," Connolly said. "And inspire everyone in the room to 'get up offa that thing.'"

Drummer Connolly, 27, bassist Miller-Hoesly, 27, and guitarist Slaff, 28, have been playing together since their time at Morristown High School. After graduating, they met and got to know their keyboardist Kirsh, 45, at various Morristown events.

The foursome were an instrumental group for more than a year until six months ago, when they met vocalist Griffiths, 35, who added the final "soul" element BullShark was missing.

Connolly said Morristown has always been home to the members of the band and Morristown's Got Talent is a show the community holds in high regard, so they're thrilled to take the stage.

Their song choice, Marvin Gaye's "Let's Get It On," is poised to be a crowd-pleaser that represents the band.

"We feel honored and humbled to be able to pay tribute to Marvin Gaye, and hopefully do the song justice," Connolly said. "Not to mention it's a hit that everyone in the audience should recognize."

Leading up to the competition, BullShark will rehearse and play some live shows in early February.

"We also look forward to playing many different types of gigs," Connolly said. "Wherever there is a need for feel-good soul and dance music, BullShark will be there."

If they win, BullShark will put the prize money toward more "toys" for the band's recording studio.

"There is an honest and sincere creative energy we feel when we play together," Connolly said. "We are confident we will translate that positive vibe to the audience, which will win over their hearts."

Check out the BullShark Facebook page to learn more about "the shark" and for audio and video content from the band, and look for them to continue to play the local bar scene.

Morristown's Got Talent

What: A show featuring the best amateur talent from Morristown, Morris Township and Morris Plains presented by and benefiting the Morris Educational Foundation

When: 7 p.m. Feb. 25

Where: Mayo Performing Arts Center, 100 South St. in Morristown

Tickets: On sale Monday, Feb. 2, at the Mayo center. Tickets can also be purchased by calling 973-539-8008 or online at www.mayoarts.org.