Third week for Twilight Dance Series at SM Pier
By Daily Press staff
Tonight’s free concert at the pier features a local 10-member band that has honed their skills as musicians to be more than a sound system, which they were once regarded as.
The Afro Celts blend techno beats, Celtic sounds and African rhythms with more classical instruments, such as the harp.
The band has developed their skills and put the focus on musicianship, technique and song-writing.
“It became apparent as we made the record that we’re not a sound system anymore,” said coproducer and guitarist Simon Emmerson. “We’ve developed a very defined sound which has come from us playing together. It’s not about a DJ and programs and samples. It’s taken a long time, but we’ve finally become a band.”
The Afro Celts are becoming local celebrities with a name change and the release of their fourth album, “Seed.”
Four albums later, the group has proven that this eclectic mix stands the test of time as they continue to perform at local venues. The afro Celts also have added many new aspects to their sound, including uilleann pipes and the bamboo flute. Meanwhile, lead singer Larla O Lionaird is said to captivate the crowd with her voice.
The name of the band comes from combining Celtic music with ancient African drums.
The opening band, Electric Skychurch, features James Lumb — a composer, producer, artist and pioneer in rock and electronic fusion music.
Bringing legendary vocalist Roxanne Morganstern to the state once again, Electric Skychurch gives an up-tempo, transcendental performance that features classic Skychurch hits, as well as new, unreleased material. The band has played for more than 1 million people world-wide and their record, “Together,” was No. 1 on the charts for 20 weeks straight.
The concert runs from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the parking deck of the Santa Monica Pier as part of the Twilight Dance Series.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on July 10, 2003. Read the original PDF.