Mongoose Originating in Montreal, Canada, Mongoose fuses North African and pop influences with roots reggae. Band leader Maimon, their principal songwriter, states: "I bring a song to the band, first and foremost with the spirit. I try to convey the meaning of the words. The words express a certain state of being or observation." Sometimes their lyrics are in French, but the message is universal: "...free the people from the panic and fear of this world, so they can live in the present." Mongoose pride themselves on their originality, bringing a tight rhythm section and a lively, upbeat feel to their conscious vibe.