 THE HEARTICAL CREW / THC
California/Hawaii
THE HEARTICAL CREW / THC is the premier roots-reggae band based in Hawaii. They made their debut in '94, rising from the break- up of their former band, ROOTS NATTY ROOTS - a band whose presence caused an immediate commotion on the reggae and "jawaiian" music scene in '92, as well as laying the foundation for the sound of future local reggae bands. THC quickly released its first CD, "Action", as well as continuing their rigorous schedule of performances throughout the islands. Original members are ISIS on bass and vocals, MAAKAH on keyboards and vocals and IDRUM on drums. These three California natives began playing reggae music in the mid-eighties and are equally serious about their faith, livity, and music. Through years of "reasoning" with elders of Ras Tafari, each one realized it was truely a divine force guiding their movements, and they began to live their own lives as their elders, with humility and love. Their musical journey would take them to the islands of Hawaii, through the guidance of Ras Tafari, to forward their works, creating a heartical music for the mind, body and soul. In '97, THC added two new talented musicians to their original lineup. They are "local" Hawaiian, BINGHI T on guitars and vocals and POPPA E on keyboards and vocals, a veteran player of the L.A. reggae music scene. Their skills on their instruments and application of all musical styles brings a new, potent and powerful dimension to the sound of THC.
Live performances by THC are captivating, heartfelt, spirited and inspired. A high energy experience. The strength of band is their ability to satisfy the masses - dancehall fans, clubs, including roots and progressive reggae audiences. From the classic roots-rockers to the modern digital dancehall rhythms, rebel music to lover's rock, THC plays it all. Besides being versatile, the music is complemented with canscious, thought-inspiring lyrics, sweet harmonious vocals, intense dub dynamics and strong musicianship. Their music breaks through cultural and language barriers and has even opened eyes, ears and hearts of people unfamiliar to reggae music. Experience, wisdom and an unwavering sense of purpose are all qualities that add to the strength of THC and the spirit driving their powerful music and message. They stand as the predominant roots reggae sound in the islands and a band ready to be heard by reggae fans internationally.
Since their inception, THC has maintained a busy performance scheduleas well as providing their musical talent for backing other artists. Their premiere performance as a backing band was with international recording star, PETER BROGGS in '94. Being a solid backing band with a vast repertoire and knowledge of classic Jamaican rhythms, THC will continue to back more reggae artists. They also collaborate with "local" Hawaiian artists, working with JAMIN WONG, REALITY, JUSTIN, NORM, BIG EVERY TIME, IRIE LOVE, SUPER JERRY and more. Their goal as a backing band is to uplift the reggae scene in Hawaii by providing crucial backing service. THC has had the honor of performing with reggae greats Inner Circle, Macka B and the Mad Professor, Israel Vibrations and many more. They have also satisfied alternative/ska audiences by performing with the likes of 311 and the Dance Hall Crashers.
THC has also performed with Big Mountain, a relationship that stems from friendships in San Diego during the eighties. While in Hawaii, both bands spent time together and seeds were planted for a future recording. They began to write and record new material at Quino's studio "TapRoot" during their west coast tour in '95. Another small tour and a return to TapRoot in '96 kept the band busy. In '97, while touring in Northern California, the band was blessed and honored to open for Luciano, Mikey General, and Sizzla, an encounter that was both musically and rootically nourishing. Their TapRoot recordings will bear fruit for their new CD entitled "Jah Music". THC toured the west coast again in February of '98 and spent the rest of the year performing and backing many recording artists in Hawaii, hilighted with a performance at the Spirit of Unity Tour. THC had the honor of backing the legendary Jamaican DJ Veteran, RANKIN JOE. In '99, they backed up artists featured on the EASY STAR RECORDS compilation; OSSIE DELLIMORE, ROB SYMEONN and RUFF SCOTT. Ruff and Rob have since returned to Hawaii for more performances as well as recording music with THC. One of THC's most memorable performances of last year was at the 1st Annual Kauai Splash, opening for Don Carlos and Michael Rose. Their song "Strive" is featured on the "Roots Music" CD compilation, and their anthem, "Free Mumia" is on the CD compilation, "No Apology/Reggae Free Mumia".
The new millenium started off on another high as THC backed WADI GAD, drummer extraordinaire of BOOM SHAKA, now coming front and center. THC celabrated BOB MARLEY"S Birthday in concert and backing international reggae dj queen, SISTER CAROL, up and coming singing sensation, JR JAZZ and the always entertaining PATO BANTON. They also celebrated the long awaited release of their new CD, "Jah Music". The band is currently promoting their new release in Hawaii and will embark on a national tour this summer in support of their CD, appearing on major festivals and in clubs.
THC have that positive energy that compels them to deliver insightful messages of joy, pain, love, faith, politics and life. Their songs are warm, deep, refreshing and touch the emotions and stimulate the intellect. The music shines with vitality, fire and uprightness, all rolled into one. Word and Sound for all heartical people who live in love and for those striving to set the example of positive living.
THE HEARTICAL CREW are livicated to their mission as singers and players of instruments. The music they play is a Blessed Music. A Heartbeat Music. A Canscious Music. A Hola Music. Jah Music. Born in Jamaica and brought to the four corners of the Earth.
Ini-versal Music in Praises of the Most High, Jah Rastafari, HIM Haile Selassie I. Through Livity, Love and JAH Music, THC, too, is striving to help make the world a better place for all. |