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THE BAND
Shawn Taylor
Vocals-Keyboards
Andrew Rodriguez
Vocals-Rhythm Guitar
Phil Simpkin
Vocals-Lead Guitar
Sean Kennedy
Drums
Ralph Arenas
Bass Guitar
Sergio Sandoval
Percussion
Simpkin Project plays a multi-faceted blend of reggae and Americana music. Their sound has been described as “uncompromising… blending authentic roots reggae rhythms with a wall-of-sound production style.” The lyrical compositions of frontman Phil Simpkin range from "simply truthful" to "stirringly anthemic.” Their dedication and respect for reggae music is both seen and heard through their unique, enthusiastic live performances, songwriting style and studio recordings.
Simpkin Project’s music addresses the struggles we all face; showing us that there is beauty in all things, from love to loss to injustice, and thus remaining true to the messages of traditional roots-reggae.
"Our respect for reggae music is paramount to the music we create and share." ~ The Simpkin Project
"Simpkin Project has it going on! The band’s ability to varnish stylistic modifications over an organic reggae rhythm, producing a gorgeously incomparable sound that is all their own. And if that’s not enough, they leaven the sound with dazzling vocal harmonies, instrumental harmonics and contagious melodies."
-Huffington Post
"Their live performances leave you in a trance, as they often take their well-known songs and break into off-the-cuff jams."
- OC Weekly Magazine
"I don’t use the word amazing lightly, but the simple fact is that there aren’t a lot of contemporary reggae bands that play roots reggae at the level of the bands I listened to growing up. The Simpkin Project is the rare exception."
- Madcap Music Review
"It's such a creative style of music that keeps the listener attentive and waiting to hear what happens next."
- Music Bailout
"Each member of the band displays unmatched instrumental prowess...
It is jam-reggae at it’s finest."
- The Pier
"Phil’s melodies are excellent, making the words easy to remember and the songs easy to hum."
- Angelica Music
Former Members: Jules Luna, Kevin Bayless, Pasquale Derosa, Mark Thompson, Chris Peeslee, Bryan Griffiths, Eric Riegler, & Nick Zermino
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