In 1998, violinist Darrell Looney began a project with the goal of writing music based on various styles including funk, modal jazz, hip hop, Latin and Caribbean. He collaborated with several local musicians in the NYC area to create the first album titled "Pandemic Love". Notable contributors were Brian Ellis (Bass Guitar) and Rob Caggiano (Guitar). Darrell Looney contributed drum programming, keyboard and violin work. This rough CD product segued into the formation of the band initially called "D-Funk and Da Phatfunk Clique" but morphed into simply "Da Phatfunk Clique" as it finally took shape, becoming a more collaborative effort.