Favorite Band in the CMI

My favorite band in the CMI is :"Our Satori" of Santa Cruz, CA. They have been compared to the likes of Jack Johnson and Dispatch. Santa Cruz music journalist Garrett Wheeler had described their music as "upbeat and catchy, like something off Jack Johnson's Brushfire Fairytales, though without the hush whisper that has become Johnson's trademark," also adding the distinction that "Satori is no Jack Johnson rip-off, as they transform from laid-back pop to straight-ahead jazz-rock with a dynamic level Jack Johnson has yet to accomplish."

Like Jack Johnson, Our Satori has the ability to both relax me and pump me up - depending on my mood. There are not many artisits that can do this. They capture the smooth sound fundamental to quality jazz and relaxiation while layering the percussion to create a modern toon and vibe.

Their music and sounds are ART in every form and direction.

Regional Champion for the CMI

Regionally, my favorite band in the CMI is "Strange Faces"! Not only because they are from good old North Cackalacky but because they truly make you want the once Strange Faces of their group to become very familiar. They are a brand new sound with a “Strange Face” - an emerging group whose sounds should be heard from your speakers!

Historically, Strange Faces formed in 2008 in Raleigh, NC. The band was a concept of songwriter Ryan Barnum’s that was realized when two of his former band mates and closest friends from NY moved to Raleigh to make music together again. The lineup consists of Ryan Barnum (Lead Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards), Art Pierce (Drums), and Mark Connor (Bass, Vocals). The band shares a love for vintage instruments and classic recordings, and strive to keep their sound organic and true to their beliefs.

Their sound effects are unique to them and embrace modern technicques while emboding the comfort of traditional soothing rythems. The indie feel to their toons ensures a captivated audience and growth in the mainstream market while the taste of rock gives them the edge necessary to enlist loyal followers.

I challenge you to explore the sounds of “Strange Faces” and see for youself just how comforting a “Strange Face” can be.