Jatoba | VT Groove-grass

Thursday May 24 at 9:00 pm / $5

Jatoba | VT Groove-Grass

"This sound is evidence of their own language in the making. Guitars, one for each ear, speak clearly in voices within mystic whispers. The Double Bass brings tones from the underground, collectively creating lyrics from language's transmitting like train rails and smoke signals, canyon echoes and signals through telegraph wires. Their poetic formations fly from Colorado to the North east." (Michael Shurtz, Billboard Magazine's former Editorial Cartoonists/Poster Artists for Bill Graham Presents)

Incorporating a unique blend of three extraordinary acoustic musicians, Jatoba redefines their sound through collective songwriting and extreme rhythmic improvisations. Through the Double Bass, Acoustic Guitars, Baritone Guitar, Mandolin, Sitar and harmonizing vocals, Jatoba displays a very eclectic arrangement of acoustic instrumentation. Jatoba is Jason Scaggs, John Jamison and Jeff Richardson.

The three members of Jatoba first came to play music together in a band based out of Keene, Hew Hampshire and since then have progressed individually and as a whole to create a truly unique style of music. Collectively the members of Jatoba have shared stages/bills with musicians and bands such as David Grisman, Rusted Root, Keller Williams, KRS One, Melvin Seals and JGB, Lettuce, Dupstafunk, Sage Francis, members of Dispatch, Lotus, RAQ, The Breakfast, The Ordinary Way and Deadwood Revival just to name a few.

The roots that Jatoba have planted will hold fast and continue to expand well beyond the aspirations that were founded in the beginning of Jatoba's life. Jatoba is a new beginning with no end in sight. Their music has and will continue to be praised by fans and musicians from all around the nation. With a strong start many people are on board to support an acoustic evolution which will hopefully bring Jatoba's music to the forefront of everyone's forehead.

Introducing MARIS and the MERRY ROCKERS

Born with a love of music, Marissa wanted a place where she could share her love, joy and passion through music 24/7. Through an awesome series of twists, turns, tears, struggles, love and laughter she found it: Berklee College Of Music!

Marissa was a 5th-semester student when she sat down with Berklee Professor Stephen Webber to catch up on the things they have in common: music, songwriting and DJing. After hearing one of her original songs, Webber suggested she record an album. Marissa soon found a producer who would help bring this long-time dream to life, who just happened to be the lead singer of one of her favorite bands: Toft Willingham of nationally-touring reggae group Spiritual Rez.

To record her music, Marissa assembled a team of her merriest - and most talented - friends, and the Merry Rockers were born.

Maris and the Merry Rockers are currently bringing their delightful blend of folk and reggae to fans in the greater Boston area. The group has performed at venues such as the Middle East and in festivals including FIGMENT 2012 and MakeMusic Cambridge 2011 and shared the stage with artists like Tubby Love, Eric Robertson, Cameron Galpin, and Nick Hakim. Audiences hush to listen to the soft strains of "Oceanica," then sing along merrily with "The Nashville Song (Drink Till 4 A.M.)."

Their debut album is expected this fall.