Bliss Beyond

Violet Samudra is a fusion of passions from the East mixed with sounds from the West. Fronted by guitarist/composer Steve Booke, the band blends sounds from the Middle East and India to arrive at a very unique musical place. Booke is a graduate of Berklee College of Music. He has appeared on countless recordings with noted musicians from around the world. Ray Ippolito, the group's percussionist, has performed and/or recorded with such musical legends as Baba Olatunji, Eddie Henderson and Dr. John. Brandon Terzic, the multi-instrumentalist of the group playing oud, saz and cumbus has studied under great names in world music such as David Fuzinski, Najib Shaheen and Bassam Saba. Tabla player Muthu Kumar, is a disciple of world renowned tabla player Ustad Zakir Hussain. Dave Eggar, who handles the cello parts for the group is a graduate of the Julliard School of Music. The combination of these musicians, their training and influences make Bliss Beyond a very unique, soulful and spiritaully healing musical experience. After hearing the music the listener will feel what few words can describe.