ocyerus banyen

Based in Waterbury Conneticut, The Gypsy Project consists of seven men: lead vocalist Ocyerus Banyen, producer/guitarist Jeff Gitty, drummer Tony Dilonardo, guitarist Los Sanchez, bassist Lou, keyboardist Joe and saxophonist Brian Hammac.  This group of talented individuals has emerged from different places, cultures, and perspectives to arrive at one common goal:  fusing rock and roll with soul R&B to create "alternative soul music".     As the demand increases for a fresh, honest, introspective and universal sound, these men have taken notes and are now ready for you to be the judge.     "I would describe the sound as 'Earth Wind and Fire' meets 'The Dave Matthews Band' with a sprinkle of 'Tool' on top," says lead vocalist Ocyerus Banyen.  Other artistic influences include Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke, John Mayer, Odis Redding, Nina Simone, Miles Davis, Jimmi Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Led Zeplin, Gladys Knight,   Prince, The Isley Brothers, Stevie Wonder, Bob Marley, CCR, U2, Guns and Roses, John Legend, and Matallica.     "The vision for The Gypsy Project came to me about seven years ago as a result of moving from place to place while growing up," Ocyerus Banyen said.   "And as a group we all wanted the sound of the band to reflect diversity, which is what we all grew to appreciate from living in several different parts of the U.S."    Approaching the beginning of a global experience, Ocyerus Banyen has already won first place during Amateur Night on the legendary Apollo stage in Harlem. "We are our own writers and producers, so there's no limit to our musical range, and after singing 'A Change is Gonna Come' by Sam Cooke on the Apollo Stage, I know indeed that the 'change' is here."      The Gypsy Project is your extended "alternative soul" musical experience. Be a part of the Evolution.