Kaliband makes Move music: a sizzling pepper pot of rock, reggae, world beat, funk, and soul that's bound to move you, physically, emotionally, and socially. This energizing fusion of Caribbean, Latin America, Africa, Europe, and the USA follows naturally since their influences are as varied as The English Beat, The Equals, Bob Marley & The Wailers, James Brown, Fela Kuti, Jorge Ben, Caetano Veloso, and The Mighty Sparrow, among others.
Born and raised in Guyana before moving to the USA, bandleader and songwriter Son of an Oracle (Son or SOAO [so-ow] for short) takes his name in homage to his father, leader of one of Guyana's most famous vocal groups, The Oracles. The name Kaliband (Caliband in its previous incarnation) is also a fusion: Kali, a female avatar of Shiva, Lord of the dance, the rhythmic life cycle of creation and destruction; Caliban, from Shakespeare's "The Tempest"; California, where the band formed (members are products of CalArts's prestigious music program).
Kaliband's current demo, If You Really Want To, suggests Guyana remains at the core of Son's consciousness. Ireng (He Rang), for instance, is a direct reference to Ireng, a border point between Brazil and Guyana; pork knockers are among the many who cross the Ireng river in both directions seeking, winning, and losing their fortunes (gold or otherwise) like love. Next, If You Really Want To represents the sort of sexual, social, and political innuendo integral to Caribbean culture. Uplifting and upbeat, even through the socially conscious "Fed Up," If You Really Want To is an invitation to a provocative, feel-good time.
"Fed Up" has won the following awards from Garageband:
Track of the Day in Ska, 14 Feb 2006
Best Mood in Ska, week of 13 Feb 2006
Best Production, Best Lyrics, Best Melody, and Best Beat in Ska, week of 20 Feb 2006.
According to TAXI, If You Really Want To is a real pleasurable listen, for sure! There is a real sense of celebration and the recording renders the impression of a strong live band. They add: very upbeat, with melody that has a lot of fluid motion, a lot of rhythmic and melodic variation, and very inviting vocal performance.
"Real crossover potential . . . fresh and compelling" -- Music Connection
These sources are spot on! With kinetic energy and musical flow that stem from sturdy musicianship and showmanship, Kaliband is Son of an Oracle (lead vocal/rhythm guitar), Milen (keys), Mark London Sims (bass), John Ballinger (lead guitar), and Jorge Villanueva (drums).
Booking & Management: Active Yogurt Culture
Los Angeles, CA
213.361.5384
Email Mgmt
