Mantra
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Ready To Explode
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Imagine a kind of Dixie Dregs vibe blended with some Allman Brothers - that would be a good starting point to getting into the fusion put out by New York's Mantra, on their debut, self-titled, instrumental CD. That's only a part of their sound however, as they also incorporate deeper jazz influences, funk, and Metheny-esque sounds into their music, as can be heard on tracks such as "Dark Matter", "Groove Tube" and "Salida Del Sol". They've been described as creating, "Some of the most grooving and sophisticated music on today's scene," and anyone would be hard pressed to turn that into a dispute. Guitarist Michael Roberts is an ultra-tasty axe wielder who offers much in the way of originality and promise. Here's hoping their first CD is a portent of even better things to come.
Now, in their fourth year, Mantra is an up and coming jazz/rock group that is about to explode onto the music scene. Mantra, featuring Michael Roberts (guitar), Alex Magor (keyboards), Evan Joyce (Bass), and Erik Egol (drums), serve up an eclectic mix of sounds, from slamming funk to progressive metal, classical inspired arrangements, and sizzling up-tempo jazz-fusion. The groupšs founder and guitarist Michael Roberts is an undiscovered virtuoso with over 20 years of playing experience. Michael is classically trained, with a BA in music education, and a NY state teaching certification. He teaches music as well as performs as a session musician. Michael has a passion for all forms of music from jazz to renaissance, rock/blues, and world music and beyond. A culmination of musical knowledge, experience, a passion for what's new and unique, and the drive for musical perfection have led Michael to create Mantra, a band with no boundaries or borders.
Mantra are currently performing their music in front of live audiences, and are seeking a record deal.
MP3 Songs
Reunion
Groove Tube
Contact Information
Michael B. Roberts
10 Byway Dr.
Deer Park, NY 11729-6205
United States
E-mail:
Mantra
Web site:
www.mantraweb.com
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Ivan Tucakov
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Flamenco, Balkan, Persian & More
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After self-producing his first CD in 2006 ("Sunrise On A New World"), guitarist Ivan Tucakov is back with his latest CD, Viaje, (in English - "Journey"). A primarily instrumental effort, Tucakov leads Tambura Rasa through the diverse material, which counts influences such as Afro-Latin, Flamenco, Irish, Indian classical, Balkan, Middle Eastern, Gypsy jazz, Persian and more. It's like a trip around the world, and you don't need to pack or track down your passport. Brian Poulsen adds a second guitar to the mix, while significant instrumentation is also provided by Tarun Nayar on tablas, Suzka on violin and Mike Michalkow on percussion. The skill level of the performance ensemble is quite high, so world guitar fans should almost consider this a must-have; at the very least, have a listen and hear for yourself. Highly recommended.
Ivan grew up in Turkey and Serbia, the crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures. Throughout the years, he also traveled to Spain, Portugal, Mexico and Peru and throughout Canada and the United States in search of new inspiration. Recently he came back from Spain where he studies flamenco guitar techniques. He currently lives in Vancouver, Canada. Tambura Rasa plays sold-out shows in Vancouver on a regular basis, in different clubs, concert venues and private functions. In March 2006, they opened up for renowned guitar duo Strunz and Farah. Ivan continues to be involved with various other multi-media projects, one of which is Brian Harris' "Beauty and Transformation" slide show.
In addition to his involvement in the production and promotion of music, on of Ivan's main goals is to tour with Tambura Rasa and introduce his music to the whole of Canada and beyond.
MP3 Songs
Delirio
Anadol
Contact Information
Ivan Tucakov / Tambura Rasa
1310 Arbutus Street
Vancouver, BC V6J 3W8
Canada
E-mail:
Ivan Tucakov
Web site:
www.tamburarasa.com
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