Thousands of One

(IT-053)

"Thousands of One", the ambitious self-titled Fall '05 release, has been warmly received by critics and fans alike for its classic soul meets funk electro-remix sound.

Gaining notoriety for their spirited live shows in clubs and festivals throughout the northeast, Thousands of One jumps from activist/ retro soul -- think Olu Dara or Marvin Gaye - to underground hip hop a la Roots or Talib Kweli with a funk/rock edge.

Recorded at Shut-in Studios, Producer Elliot Martin combined his love of space age synth and analog knobs with a loyalty to the band's eclectic live sound. Also vocalist - songwriter - producer of internationally acclaimed Roots Reggae band John Brown's Body, Martin contributes harmony vocals and percussion on several tracks. The result is a work of art that explores uncharted sonic textures. The magic of this year old collective springs from its commitment to building a street vibe, 'paying their dues' playing for the people at clubs, schools, music festivals, block parties, and community benefits. They strive to break down barriers of comfort and acceptability between artist and audience while funking the groove.

::CD Guests::
Jordan Aceto represents the Sim Redmond Band (I-Town/Buffalo Records - Japan)
Elliot Martin, of John Brown's Body adds vocals, tamborine, synth, moog, and arrangement.
Jay Spaker of J-San & the Analogue Sons (I-Town)
Lucente Sisters of Five-2 (ITown) lend their harmonies on several tracks.
Maurice Haltom Afro-Percussion master, father of vocalist Jhakeem Haltom and former member of Tower of Power.

Before joining forces as Thousands of One, group members graced projects across the musical spectrum from hip hop & reggae, jazz & Motown to Nashville country. And shared the stage with artists from Lil' G of multiplatinum 90's r&b group Silk to groove rockers Left Over Salmon.

::Production / Alchemy::
Elliot Martin: engineering and production
Pyramid Sound/Alex Perialas: Mastered through analog tube, tapes and digital EQ. Alex is a veteran of projects from Anthrax to Missy Elliot & Ginuwine.
::

Influences? Listen closely and you might hear the echoes of teenage years spent singing in Mississippi church choirs, the frenetic funk of a New Years Eve party while Maceo Parker & Fred Wesley rocked the house; and utmost respect and admiration for legendary artists from Ella Fitzgerald and Willie Nelson to Black Star and KRS-1.

"Thousands of One" is a journey. It is a socio-political commentary, as well; a personal inquiry to the soul in search of roots, love and culture. Music with a mission.

Sample MP3's