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Since 1995 Washington DC's premier Ska-Jazz outfit brings together top musicians from the Jazz and Ska scene of the nation's capitol. The diverse musical background of the players - ranging from Emo to Funk, Hip Hop to Exotica, Bop to Metal - make up a unique spin on of the traditional Jamaican sound, appealing to everyone from the Ska massive to the Carib-bean community to the Jazz enthusiast.
While the backgrounds of the members may vary, EASTERN STANDARD TIME remains true to the roots of Ska music by playing a style that has been a seminal influence on many modern genres such as Reggae, Alternative, Punk and Rap. The unique sound -both cutting edge and simultaneously traditional - comes from their modern implementation of the original Ska recipe: hot Jazz melodies and Bop garlands overlay syncopated Caribbean rhythms.
Meanwhile EASTERN STANDARD TIME is a world-renowned act, with multiple tours of the U.S., Canada, Europe and the British Isles to their credit. Their numerous recordings (their discography lists more than thirty titles) have brought them acclaim e.g. as "one of Washing-ton's best bands" by the Washington Post - or on TV specials such as MTV's "120 Minutes", on television talk shows and documentaries.
Their debut full-length album, "Second Hand" (1997), was credited by the media as being one of the most groundbreaking records in Ska-oriented music. It showcased the formidable talents of the band's own musicians, but also featured such prominent guests as The Sledge (Toasters, Illinois Jacquet), Sam Turner (Lionel Hampton, James Brown), Coolie Ranx (Pil-fers, Toasters) and Go-Go legend Chuck Brown.
After the band's success with their 2nd album "Time is Tight" now the full-length no. 3 will be released, also on Germany's Grover Records in January 2005 ("Tempus Fugit" GRO 085). To support the release EASTERN STANDARD TIME is gearing up for large-scale touring beginning in January, too. Their performances are truly events and their varied repertoire has proven that they can play to virtually every audience and - more importantly - get them on their feet and dancing. Whether on their own or as a support act, EASTERN STANDARD TIME has proved that they can bring the house down - time and time again.
E.S.T.
are:
Philip Cooper - Trombone/Vocals
James McDonald - Drums/Vocals
Robbie McDonald - Guitars
Morgan Russell - Tenor Saxophone/Vocals
I-Peace Unikue - Vocals
Scott Palmer - Keyboards
Ben Holmes - Trumpet
Jan. 2005
website:
www.easternstandardtime.com
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