A Magical, Musical Breeze
A monsoon is traditionally defined as a seasonal reversing wind accompanied by corresponding changes in precipitation. The inventive and innovative New Monsoon is the musical counterpart, continually morphing with an exhilarating marriage of acoustic and electric instruments that comes together in a blend of sophisticated songcraft, musical exploration and down home rock ‘n’ roll. This makes New Monsoon a difficult band to describe because they have so many influences and are classified in so many genres of music. The bottom line is they play the kind of music that makes your feet move and your heart soar.
New Monsoon fills space beautifully, moving with purpose and skirting the booby trap of noodling for noodling’s sake. They’re primo musicians, so they could just riff and wander, but there’s a real focus on quality material and a palpable dedication to carrying each piece off with intelligent flair.
The group is well known for its blend of vibrant world percussion performed with an eclectic array of instruments. Percussion, didgeridoo, electric and acoustic guitars, banjo, mandolin, bass and keyboards unify the musical styles of New Monsoon’s influences, which are as diverse as rock gods Jimi Hendrix, Pink Floyd and Santana, bluesman Mississippi John Hurt and world music pioneers Tito Puente, Shakti and Peter Gabriel. By melding a world of rhythm, jazzy melodies and romping finger styles with a powerful delivery, New Monsoon’s explorations of sound and rhythm continue to prove it is one of the more well-rounded bands in the jam-based music scene. They are wonderfully adept with all the familiar jam band idioms, especially 70s guitar rock a la the Allman Brothers, but where they really distinguish themselves is in marrying those familiar grooves with exotic sounds hinting of the Indian subcontinent and beyond.
New Monsoon’s original compositions are an experience of musical textures, rhythms, ideas and moods. At any given performance, the audience enjoys a synthesis of genres, everything from bluegrass to reggae, to funk and rock ‘n’ roll. The music’s heavy Latin and Indian vibe, with progressive use of melody and rhythm woven into the mix, gets people up and dancing. New Monsoon’s live energy is unparalleled and the sound flows relentlessly upbeat, all the while maintaining an irresistible groove.
Their three percussionists provide Latin (congas, cajon), North Indian (tablas et al) and rock/jazz influences. Their keyboardist/ pianist provides rock melodies, jazz improv, space jams, funk and an accordion on rare occasions. The two guitarists provide blues, classic rock, sitar and bluegrass sounds with acoustic and electric guitars, the banjo and the dobro. And, the bass player helps hold it all together with incredible bass lines that flesh out their sound and vibrate your soul. Add in strong vocals and harmonies, and you have the foundation of this versatile group.
A New Monsoon concert is about pushing the positive, and connecting with the audience and music and they are at their best in the live arena. If energy and inspired improvisation call to you, New Monsoon will be a breeze of fresh air.
New Monsoon plays Crystal Bay Club on May 3. For more show information, visit crystalbayclubcasino.com. For more information on New Monsoon, visit newmonsoon.com.
