Earth, Wind and Fire has been traveling the winery circuit of late. That’s all fine and well _ but it’s hard to properly get your funk on at a fancy winery spot, one that might be hosting Kenny G on the very next night.

That won’t be an issue when EWF performs on Saturday (July 14) at the Paramount Theatre. That historic downtown Oakland is the best place in the Bay Area to see R&B/soul/funk shows. It’s hard to pinpoint exactly why that’s the case _ but, for some reason, the funk just seems funkier and the soul feels more soulful at the Paramount.

EWF, as its fans can contest, is one of the greatest R&B/soul acts on the planet. So, really, this looks like a match made in funk heaven.

The Grammy-winning band boasts an embarrassment of riches when it comes to terrific tunes. Fans should expect to hear such golden nuggets as “Shining Star,” “Let’s Groove,” “Sing a Song,” “Boogie Wonderland” and, of course, “September.” And they should expect to hear them sung very well _ Philip Bailey still has one of the most amazing voices on the planet.

Showtime is 8 p.m. Tickets are $45.50-$85.50. The Paramount is at 2025 Broadway in Oakland. Call (510) 465-6400 or visit www.paramounttheatre.com.