Over the years, the Washington, D.C. music scene has become best known for its hardcore (Minor Threat) and go-go (Trouble Funk) alumni, but as evidenced by the great Bad Brains, reggae has been represented as well. SOJA has risen to the forefront, picking up right where the Brains left off – creating their own blend of conscious roots music entwined with the traditional rhythms of reggae, which "comes across with passion and depth." (Washington Post '06)
That said, SOJA is not that easy to define. Although they are rooted in reggae, they are not limited to it; their fan-base reflects this with a very diverse population. The music includes and embraces all walks of life - it has no prejudice – it is for everyone. The band grew up listening to reggae, hip-hop, and rock. In their sound, reggae became the predominate influence because it is dedicated to a real message and promotes revolution.
The group, which includes a pair of lead singers who also pull double duty - Jacob Hemphill (guitar) and Bobby Lee (bass) – as well as Patrick O'Shea ..boards, percussionist Kenn Brownell, and drummer Ryan Berty, originally came together in 1997. Since 2000, the quintet has issued three full length albums and two EP 's– their latest, "Stars and Stripes" (2008), is their fourth for the group's own label, DMV.
In the early half of 2009, the band will release their second DVD "SOJA Live In Hawai'i ~ A Marc Carlini Film", followed by the highly anticipated album "Born In Babylon", which is scheduled for release in the summer of '09.
Ever the road warriors (SOJA averages 150 gigs per year), the group is now on tour and will be hitting select cities in the U.S., Canada, Caribbean, Pacific Islands, South America, & Europe. With such a list of accumulated live dates, a specific high point is hard to pin down, but Brownell remembers a particular performance. "One of the shows that remains in the front of my mind was playing in Guam for the first time back in '05 for nearly 6,000 fans. That was an amazing experience."
With SOJA calling their own shots, "Stars and Stripes" proves that the band's message and music will only continue to grow stronger with each successive release. In support of their latest EP, "Stars and Stripes", SOJA is embarking on a journey around the world.
Just thought i'd let you guys know you rocked my fuckin' socks at the BBQ. i am completely in LOVE with your music. and Ryan. haha. I can't wait to see you August 22nd and 23rd! one love!
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