Namaste
Jake are:
-
Eddie K:
lead vocals, guitar
-
Jason Firkin: drums, percussion, vocals
-
Kevin Smerdon: bass guitar,
vocals
Delivering a hybrid of psychedelic indie pop and groove-based funk, fused with strong blues and jazz influences, Namaste Jake are building a reputation as one of Australia's most intriguing emerging talents.
This particularly unique style has evolved from the vastly differing musical backgrounds of guitarist/vocalist Eddie K, drummer Jason Firkin and bass guitarist Kevin Smerdon. This unmistakably infectious, genre-crossing sound was created when the trio began casually jamming on the banks of the Logan River, midway between Brisbane and Gold Coast, in July 2000.
An early indication of the bands potential was when, after only two live performances and just two months together, they entered the Queensland Rock Awards and were ultimately awarded a Grand Final position. Fuelled by such encouragement, the trio recorded their debut demo EP in December 2000 which, despite a restrictive budget, was met with enthusiastic radio support and respectable sales.
The following year was spent refining the bands characteristic fresh style with an abundance of energetic performances at multitudes of pubs, clubs, universities and festivals throughout Australia. An impressive debut year culminated with a New Years Eve set at the 2001 Woodford Folkfest where they played alongside George, Alex Lloyd and the John Butler Trio. Their versatility has also afforded them the opportunity to play alongside artists as diverse as Motor Ace, Screamfeeder, Frenzal Rhomb, Diana Ah Naid, Primary, the Porkers and You Am I. The band has also contributed to film soundtracks, including A Dish Best Served Cold which is currently screening at film festivals throughout Europe and North America.
In the midst of an equally hectic gig schedule in 2002, they recorded their second EP, The Underground Groove. The EP was released in November through MGM Distribution with a couple of tracks immediately receiving extensive airplay on Australian and British independent radio as well as the Australian Triple J network. To coincide with the release, the band took to the road, firstly on a tour of the Australian east-coast and then on a promotional tour of Great Britain through December and January 2003.
What the critics are saying.......
"Another Brisbane band with an individual sound, Namaste Jake peddle a brand of funky guitar pop with a fetching quirk factor that puts them in the same ballpark as Custard. Eddie Kriletch's irrepressible I've-had- too-much-red-cordial vocals, in particular, bring to mind Dave McCormack, and spring about the place with glee. Highlights include Just Like Eve & Adam, with its bouncy, chorused guitars and breezy melody, and 98K Whore, a vibrant, uptempo dissection of the rich/poor divide with funky wah-wah guitar and locomotive bass. A groovy, smart, catchy collection, aided by some great band performances.
Rave Magazine - December 2002
"What do they sound like?
Unique.
These guys have created their own style. Outstanding and different vocals
that will have you funkin'. If it's musical innovation you want, this dynamic
trio will not disappoint. Riffs that will invade your mind."
Rave Magazine - October 2000
"With a blend of jazz beats, borderline punk style vocals with funky
rhythms, Namaste Jake are a definite must-see. If you like what borders
on the different, these three quirky characters will provide you with music
you'll want to move to
..
These guys aren't afraid to get up there bringing their own personal style
to the scene. They are carving a new way for a new sound and doing very
well."
The Music Platform - November
2000
"Recently we were at the Queens Arm's in New Farm and have no doubt
seen Brisbane's best band: Namaste Jake. THESE GUYS ROCK! From the start
of their set to the end, they played music that just blew our minds away.
Funky jazz beats to songs that are still in our heads. Forget about other
bands, this band is awesome!"
Time Off - April 2001
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