Cortex is a French jazz-funk band originating from the 1970s, known for their heavily sampled catalog that has influenced modern hip-hop and electronic music. The group remained largely obscure outside of France for decades until a resurgence in interest brought their work to international audiences. Their distinctive style blends tight funk rhythms with sophisticated jazz harmonies, creating a sound that is both groove-oriented and musically complex. The band made their first Bay Area debut in July 2024, headlining a sold-out show at the UC Theatre in Berkeley as part of the "Jazz Is Dead Presents" series. This performance marked their first concert in the region, drawing fans familiar with their music through samples in contemporary tracks. Cortex continues to perform live, bringing their vintage 1970s jazz-funk energy to new audiences while maintaining the authenticity of their original recordings.