"combines trippy, and sometimes ambient, jams with enough New Orleans-style funk so that even someone not stoned can enjoy" (Al Kaufman, Atlanta music guide)
“Wow, I’ve never seen anybody do that before!” new fans tell the members of Peace of Mind Orchestra. The group has two members, but if you close your eyes and listen, your ears will be pleasantly surprised. And though at first glance, it is the acrobatic instrumentation that captures the audience's attention, underneath the eclectic visual spectacle lies a solid body of crafted compositions.
Peace of Mind Orchestra (aka “POMO”) is comprised of Ari Leopold and Matt Engel. The duo finished their first record, “Still Awake at Dawn, part one,” in the summer of 2009. The record has a funky, psychedelic, vintage feel, pillared by catchy choruses and captivating instrumental sections. With Matt and Ari recording various parts, each on several different instruments, it actually sounds like a 4-6 piece band.
In emulating this sound live, the duo avoids the ever-more-traditional approach of using loops and sequencers. Instead, Matt covers both bass and keyboard lines, using a Moog synthesizer bass, and a Nord Electro (known for its Hammond Organ and Rhodes Piano sounds.) Ari developed a similar 2-at-once approach for drumkit and guitar, involving extra footpedals for a snare drum, and the “beat guitar,” where he hits the strings with a drumstick.
POMO’s music takes adventurous journeys across the genre pool, ranging from ambient aural landscapes to tightly interlocked, musical mosaics, resolving into their own blend, hinting flavors of Pink Floyd, Motown and New Orleans funk.
The group is currently working on post-production for their upcoming “Still Awake at Dawn, part two.” To date, their touring has focused on the regions surrounding New Orleans and Northern California. However, with their upcoming 2009-10 schedule, they are pleased to be expanding toward a wider national fanbase.
Hey Peace-of-Mind Orchestra, Mixtape Mondays has a new home... Exodus II located at 3477 N Clark St. Chicago, IL Now here's the best part, MM is back 'battle style' with our signature Hottest Song Contest. All it takes is one great song to win $500 Cash, The Belt, MP3 players, Studio Time, Beats and Bragging Rights. Pre-selection for African Fest Performers also begins that night. Sign up starts 9 pm sharp. $5 to watch. $15 to compete.
.. Every Monday is Mixtape Monday at Exodus II 3477 N Clark St. starting May 11, 2009. Sponsored by oreganostudio.com and Haut Sneaker Boutique See you there and please spread the word..
Thanks for adding ShipRocked, an unparalleled five-day rock and roll music cruise, with on-board performances by Queensryche, Tesla, Skid Row, EndeverafteR, Lynam, StoneRider, Broken Teeth and Stereoside.Sailing November 15-20, 2009 from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica & Grand Cayman on the MSC Poesia, ShipRocked will truly be the ultimate rock and roll vacation and backstage pass!
Cabins are filling up fast, so visit www. getshiprocked. com or call 877-855-5502 to book your cabin today!
LOYAL EARTH MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL : APR 16 thru APR 20 - Old Rock House, Downtown St. Louis : Visit Loyalearth.com for tickets, full lineup, and more info!
Chicago's Best Open Mic Keeps Getting Better Every Monday Hey Peace-of-Mind Orchestra, this Monday is the big battle, perfect chance to perfect your craft.
We now have a professional camera crew setting up every Monday to the left of the stage!
Mixtape Mondays Every Monday at The Spoken Word Cafe 4655 S King Dr. (47th n King) 9 pm - 2 am (except battle nights) $5 all night Arrive early with original music if you plan on performing. Hope to see you this and every Monday, AwoL
WE'VE BEEN HOLED UP WORKING ON OUR NEW STOP-MOTION VIDEO FOR "MATRYOSHKA" ...PROUD TO SAY IT'S FINALLY FINISHED!!!
We hope you like it! We had fun making it.
