By Daily Press staff
Collectively, Garaj Mahal brings a century of musical training to the stage, the combination of four first-class musicians with resumes that include playing/recording with Sting, Steve Kimock, John McLaughlin, Bela Fleck and Chick Corea. The band consists of Kai Eckhardt (bass), Fareed Haque (guitars), Alan Hertz (drums) and Eric Levy (keys).
Brought together in 2000 as a super jam session, Garaj Mahal has captured the hearts of music lovers across the nation with their ability to draw out serious “shut-up-and-listen” type grooves. Their musical experience allows them to constantly push the envelope of composition and improvisation. Their blend of funk, jazz, fusion and blues with a world music flare makes their sound different than many currently on the scene. Nominated for a “Jammy” in both 2002 and 2003, Garaj Mahal continues to gain the respect of music industry leaders.
Garaj Mahal’s first studio album,“Mondo Garaj,” has been well received and they are currently in the studio working on the second to be released later this year.
Garaj Mahal comes to Santa Monica on Friday, Sept. 8 at 14 Below, located at 1348 14th St. Showtime is 9 p.m. and doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $12.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on September 8, 2006. Read the original PDF.