Jazzwinnipeg.com

OPENSOULS

SATURDAY, JULY 3 • 11:45 PM

OLD MARKET SQUARE

FREE

SUNDAY, JULY 4 • 8:55 PM

OLD MARKET SQUARE

FREE
 
Since their musical journey began in 2001, Opensouls have been busy winning over music lovers with their fresh, infectious energy. Infused with elements of soul and old-school R&B, the band’s unique sound is due to a collaborative effort from its seven talented members, each bringing their own personality, flair, and musical taste to the mix.

The core members are vocalists Tyra Hammond and Bjorn Peterson, with Jeremy Toy (guitar) Julien Dyne (drums), Chip Matthews (bass), Isaac Aesili (trumpet), and Harlin Davey (MPC). Jeremy and Julien are the original architects of Opensouls. Both had been members of live hip hop group 5th Floor, but after it dissolved they decided it was time to start something new. And, after a careful hunt to find the right people to carry on the sound they were looking to create, Opensouls was born.

Standing in the Rain, Opensouls’ terrifically accomplished sophomore record, is a concept album made with the intent to reflect the sound and feeling of a musical era; late-‘50s, early-‘60s British and American R&B. Inspiration was drawn from traditional songwriters such as Lennon and McCartney, Smokey Robinson, Holland / Dozier / Holland, and Van Morrison. Consequently, the album has an unmistakable vintage quality, reminiscent of Motown in its heyday. Tracks such as “Love Turns Wild” and “Leave The Light On” are deliciously languid and conjure up images of smoky speakeasies and bourbon-sipping old-timers teasing tunes from pianos. Others, such as “Blind To See” and “Dollars,” are pure rambunctious modern pop-rock infused with ‘60s style soul.

With their dynamic and spirited performances, Opensouls are fast winning a reputation as one of New Zealand’s best live acts. Lighting up the stage with their irrepressible energy, they are crowd pleasers at music festivals and gigs around the country and in Australia. Bringing soul to the music scene, this powerful collective of talented musicians are setting the bar for world-class New Zealand music.

www.opensouls.co.nz