Option 22

An eclectic, all original mix of rhythmic grooves and transcendental melodies make for a performance experience that lifts its audiences to higher ground. Dubbed by one listener a “new age jam band,” O22's main objective is to present a positive message. Their flavorful style is flexible, ranging from funky and rhythmic sounds to mellow and melodic, with each member bringing into the equation affinities for jamband music, funk, folk, world sounds, newgrass, trance, reggae and rock. Full-out drum jams send energy bouncing off the walls of any venue. Another listener dubbed the sound “hippie hop,” another “progressive folk.” The only category that truly seems fitting is “Other.” Robert (guitar, banjo, hand-drums, didgeridoo), Lori (vocals, djembe) and Albert (guitar, hand-drums) have been writing and playing music together since early 2004. Their songs come fresh from the moment, meaning most of their songs are written from improvisational sessions. Lori's vocals are passionate and captivating and her djembe drumming is funky and steady. Robert's riffs are catchy and danceable and his mad stylings on the didgeridoo and drums get people on their feet. Albert's guitar style is unique and poignant, dancing all over the board. With extensive backgrounds in theatre, performance, healing arts (yoga/meditation), and visual arts, the group comes together with an artistic mind-set and a vision for a better world. Some of Option 22’s favorite shows in the past have been Culturefest ‘04, ’05, ‘06, & ’07, Earth day festivals ‘04-’07, Carnegie Hall in Lewisburg, WV, and the Purple Fiddle in Thomas, WV. O22 frequents venues in the region like the Vandalia Lounge in Charleston and FireCreek Tavern in Fayeteville. With four albums of original material, their second studio release is due out Spring ‘08. Visit www.option22.net to hear more music and keep posted! whateverlife.com