Recommended Listening With Damian Erskine : Garaj Mahal (Kai Eckhardt) | “Revenir”

Meet Reviewer Damian Erskine –

Garaj Mahal (Kai Eckhardt)
“w00t”
www.garajmahal.net – www.kaizone.com

Having made a name quickly for himself as an uber-talented kid plucked out of Berklee to tour with John McLaughlin, bassist Kai Eckhardt has maintained a presence in the bass community and a level respect from his audiences and peers alike.  For those unfamiliar, Garaj Mahal is a collaborative effort between Kai, guitarist Fareed Haque, keyboardist Eric Levy and drummer Alan Hertz (currently touring with the awe inspiring Sean Rickman on drums).  If you know these names, I don’t have to tell you that these guys are capable of anything and most surely “bring it” to every show (you’ve GOT to see these guys!).

These four world class musicians are nimbly dancing and grooving through deep pocket funk, four-on-the-floor pumping dance grooves, Indian Raga Rhythmic sequences and some of the most danceable odd-time grooves you’ve ever heard with grace, presence and an abundant joy (and they WILL play all night long…).  If you love music, love bass or love dancing this is one band to see live.

The album does a wonderful job of capturing both the humor and intrigue of this combination of musicians and I humbly suggest that you give it a listen (also check out the award winning “Blueberry Cave” release!)