The Story:
In a reclusive cottage deep in the woods of Weston, Connecticut, four small-town kids wrote and recorded what would become their first EP. Akudama took shape on a brisk winter day, where sounds reminiscent of a lucid daydream kept the band warm. As the snow storm escalated, a sound grew and leapt up from their instruments like the flickering flames in a hearth. Interweaving quilted textures of chords, persistent drum beats, and buoyant basslines, Akudama created music that is at once soothing and relaxing as it is rich and expansive.
Over time, the band expanded its sound from its intimate instrumental foundation to incorporate full-fledged vocal melodies and larger structural sensibilities. Akudama's first full-length album, “flying over morning” was recorded and produced by Calvin (guitarist) in the living room of his tiny cabin.
In the beginning:
The group started when brothers Calvin and Cayce Pia collaborated on a few ideas. They were itching to create a new kind of sound, a sound inherently different from that of their largely high-school hard-rock endeavors. Blake Charleton quickly joined the effort, contributing his own style of brushstroke guitars, staple keyboard phrases and emphatic voice to the mix. Classically-trained bass prodigy and next-door neighbor Matt Webber further enhanced their sound with his jazzy intuitions and knack for improvisation. Together, Akudama formed a new niche amongst contemporary local artists as a distinctly mature and cohesive outfit. They consistently dazzle audiences, from basements to clubs and larger venues throughout the Northeast. Akudama has shared bills with many notable groups, though most prestigiously, playing in an Endless Recordings showcase that featured The Arcade Fire.
Akudama has developed a widespread fan base which consists of “indie hipsters” to fans of mainstream pop-rock, blues and jazz; pleasing even the most casual listener. Independent label Endless Recordings [www.EndlessRecordings.com] picked up Akudama as its premier artist. Their first release “flying over morning” resonates a sound of polished naïveté, a celebration of bountiful emotion and youthful dynamics.
Currently:
In effort to create a strong, naturally formed follow up to “flying over morning,” Akudama spent the month of August deeply secluded at a barn in backwoods Massachusetts. Here, the band ate, lived, and practiced together daily. During this time, Akudama developed as a band by leaps and bounds, resulting in the writing and recording of their sophomore record. Though mixing is still very much in the works for the L.P., the band will release a diverse follow-up E.P. in time for summer tour titled "Johnny Appleseed," a fond look back at the days when life was simple.
Stay tuned for updates on the forthcoming album, and thank you for your interest in Akudama!
Purchase Akudama's Music on iTunes:
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