Hailing from California’s Bay Area, Groundation released their new studio album, entitled Building An Ark, on April 24, 2012 via Dub Rockers/VP/Universal Music. This 10-track set is the first release off the new imprint Dub Rockers from reggae giant VP Records.
The internationally acclaimed band stays true to the essence of their dynamic sound— capturing the true spirit of roots reggae while blending elements of jazz, funk, latin and transcendental dub. The album’s hypnotic funk-based rhythms move from earthy percussion-based tracks to complex impressionistic dub compositions. This sophisticated selection of genre-bending sounds provides the perfect template for some of their most fiery militant and conscious lyrics to date.
Groundation formed in 1998 when three long time musicians Harrison Stafford (guitar/lead vocals), Marcus Urani (organ/keys/piano) and Ryan Newman (bass) met in the jazz program of California's Sonoma State University. Over the years, the band grew to a 9-piece group including a jazz horn section, several percussion players and Jamaican background singers. They have released over 9 albums independently –collaborating with reggae legends including Don Carlos and The Congos – and developed a very international cult following with their progressive sound and legendary live performances. They have toured extensively in over 30 countries on four continents – headlining several renowned European festivals like Summerjam and Rototom.
Groundation is currently amidst their 14th worldwide tour. They recently wrapped up shows in California, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, continue in South America & The Middle East and plan to return to the U.S. in the Fall of 2012 for a new tour.
The internationally acclaimed band stays true to the essence of their dynamic sound— capturing the true spirit of roots reggae while blending elements of jazz, funk, latin and transcendental dub. The album’s hypnotic funk-based rhythms move from earthy percussion-based tracks to complex impressionistic dub compositions. This sophisticated selection of genre-bending sounds provides the perfect template for some of their most fiery militant and conscious lyrics to date.
Groundation formed in 1998 when three long time musicians Harrison Stafford (guitar/lead vocals), Marcus Urani (organ/keys/piano) and Ryan Newman (bass) met in the jazz program of California's Sonoma State University. Over the years, the band grew to a 9-piece group including a jazz horn section, several percussion players and Jamaican background singers. They have released over 9 albums independently –collaborating with reggae legends including Don Carlos and The Congos – and developed a very international cult following with their progressive sound and legendary live performances. They have toured extensively in over 30 countries on four continents – headlining several renowned European festivals like Summerjam and Rototom.
Groundation is currently amidst their 14th worldwide tour. They recently wrapped up shows in California, Australia, New Zealand, Europe, continue in South America & The Middle East and plan to return to the U.S. in the Fall of 2012 for a new tour.
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