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---THE VINYL TREES--- The Vinyl Trees are about invention and the need to pursue directions that don't necessarily conform. Although the band was formed in the bay area of northern California, the Trees come from different roots that go as far as Canada, as singer Mark Smith hails from Eyebrow, Saskatchewan. Growing up, fueled on Canadian icons such as Neil Young, The Guess Who, and The Tragically Hip, you can definitely hear influences in Smith's song writing. Using several different instruments, the Trees were able to create a very original and unique sound on their first album titled Pura Vida. Released April '07, the record uses a blend of acoustic guitars, didgeridoo, african balafon, ukulele, as well as a harmonium. The energy and drive is led by percussionist Larry Brooks, mostly using a Cajon, which is a peruvian drum that is played by sitting on it and striking the front. This is all glued together by the grooving chops of Alek Dorian on the bass, giving the band a very real, organic type of music that sits nicely behind catchy harmonies and driving melodies. "Pura Vida" literally translated means "pure life." A mindset that was truly absorbed in the creation of this album. Draying on the elements that constantly surround us, Smith was able to fuse that energy into each song in some sort of special way. Through his adventures that have led him to different parts of the world, listeners can almost feel as though they are actually experiencing those cultures, giving them a sense of fulfillment that leaves them feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Let the Vinyl Trees take you on a trip around the world, without ever leaving.