Rootstock
Rootstock is a highly respected
5-piece reggae group from the heart of Northern California. The
members of this world fusion band consist of Yanahay Hooper on
lead vocals and guitar, Tom Forest on keyboards percussion and
vocals, Lex Krauss on lead guitar and vocals, Frankie Robletto
on drums and backing vocals, and Ellery Clark holding down the
bass and backing vocals.
Formed in 1983 after jamming and communicating across the
redwood hills, Rootstock's musical style, based on roots-reggae
and world-beat rhythms, has been described as "eclectic", "World
fusion", and "reggae with a rock edge".
1991's "Planet Green", their long awaited album of originals
brought the band wide acclaim across their home state, where
they have the reputation of being one of Northern California's
favorite reggae bands.
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1995's CD album "See
No Color", landed Rootstock at world famous "Reggae On the
River", where the band was warmly greeted by many of the local
following. The album of original works was also honored by a
nomination to the Bammie Awards for the all new category of
"Outstanding World Beat Album".
2001’s CD release of “More Than It Takes” is a short sweet
sampler EP of what the band has been up to lately. With new
member Ellery Clark on bass, the CD also features backing vocals
by local jazz woman Paula Samonte, and was recorded at Laughing
Coyote Studio and co-produced by Spencer Brewer.
Rootstock has been actively involved supporting and performing
at numerous political and environmental actions. Their humor and
earthly philosophies are reflected through their environmental
and political lyrics for which Rootstock is well known.
For over twenty years, performing at concerts and festivals in
Nevada, California and Oregon, Rootstock has opened for such
reggae greats as Third World, Israel Vibrations, the Congos,
Zulu Spear, Messenjah, The Itals, The Wailers Band, and Burning
Spear.
Rootstock Links:
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