Gypsy Roots

[This article was originally published in MNPR Magazine]

Gypsy Roots are a reggae-dub-punk band that is going to be making a name for itself in 2018. They bring a much needed fresh take on funky dub with a continuation of the reggae tradition. The band took to the stage and played to a packed house in Krakatoa in Aberdeen, which has a longstanding tradition of finding and supporting new music. The band is local to the North-East of Scotland, but you can be sure that they’re not going to stay that way. They managed to blend a professional musical performance, with fantastic crowd engagement from start to finish – not bad going since the lead guitar lost a string in the first song!

The 6 person lineup starts with Joe Espindola on guitar and vocals and sister Paloma Espindola on vocals. The pair make a statement on the identity of the band with dreadlock and smiles flowing easily from both of them. John Elphinstone on bass and Liam Cole on guitar round out the 3 guitar set, with Marjun Wraae-Stewart on keys and Chris Stewart on Drums.

These guys really know how to bring the crowd on a journey with them, mixing up not just the tempo but the energy in the songs in their set. Great underlying musicality wasn’t overshadowed by moments of booming vocals, and the quality was still there even in the fastest high-stepping dub number. This complete performance was recognised by their recent win of the Battle of the Bands in Aberdeen, which will set them up nicely ahead of their debut album release in May.

A great sound, a great look and a great performance.Look out 2018 – Gypsy Roots are coming for you!

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