Music – Washington, D.C.
Higher Hands are the latest group to emerge in the funk-soul revival led by acts such as Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, JJ Grey & Mofro, and Charles Bradley to name a few. A mainstay in the DMV (DC, Maryland, Virginia), the band calls Annapolis home, performing regularly in the area. The \"Hands\" take a unique approach to creating their sound, relying on the talents of keyboardist Larry Byrne (who doubles on left hand bass), drummer Marty Bouchard, saxophonist Troy Atkins, and percussionist Marty Grigsby. It all comes together behind lead vocalist and percussionist Jason Crawford, who blends intelligent lyricism and soulful hooks effortlessly. And while the influence of landmark artists Bill Withers, The Meters, and James Brown is evident, the band consistently surprises showing they are equal parts A Tribe Called Quest, Fela Kuti, and Chuck Brown. This is Soul Music through and through, infused with Jazz, Hip-Hop, Go-Go, and deep Funk.
Higher Hands released \"Stay Sharp\" in November 2012, the band\'s highly anticipated, second full-length album. \"Stay Sharp\" has a full roster of notable guest players lighting up its 12 tracks, adding depth and new dimension to the band’s original compositions. From the opening Hip-Hop crunch of “Re-Introduction” to the closing Go-Go groove of “Blow It Out”, Higher Hands manages to touch on serious Funk, Jazz, and Afrobeat in between while never losing a cohesive feel. No easy task, but the band has truly created a signature sound on \"Stay Sharp\" which is further evidenced in their live show.
It’s Higher Hands y’all! Right there in the pocket. Funky Soul Fusion with a Twist of Rhyme.