ELMORE MAGAZINE Premiere: BANJO NICKARU “Get Us Out of Fearland”

March 2, 2018 by 1888media

New York City’s Banjo Nickaru & Western Scooches are likely the only band today infusing elements of Gullah-Geechee and world rhythms with folk traditions, Americana, New Orleans influences, and 1920s jazz. It’s “Americana music at its purest and most impressive.”

Championing their “remarkable musical dexterity with songs that bask in a genuine roots regimen and a sense of timeless tradition,” recognized industry tastemaker Elmore Magazine recently premiered the title track from the band’s forthcoming sophomore album, Get Us Out Of Fearland.

Due August 3, Get Us Out Of Fearland is an eclectic excursion that includes the playful 1920s verve of “I Don’t Need No Glasses,” the warm lilting embrace of “I Wish The World Knew Why,” the organ-driven, gospel-tinged “Dandelion” (featuring special guest vocalists, Stephanie Rice and Charenee Wade), and “Soar,” an inspirational song filled with optimism, determination, and perseverance.

These qualities sail skyward throughout the 25-minute journey, but none more so than on the boisterous groundbreaking title track, which features improvisational vocalist Miles Griffith, known for his work with Wynton Marsalis, Max Roach, Paul Simon, and Reggie Workman, and percussionist/vocalist, Dr. David Pleasant, a singular talent who has performed with Wynton Marsalis, Cecil Taylor, and Paul Simon.

“These powerful and strong influences for our band bring spiritual energy to our shows,” says co-founder/musician Nick Russo. “My musical life has always been surrounded by an eclectic combination of unique musicians and scenes. So naturally, this band is a melting pot of many different cultures, genres, instruments, and sounds. My dream is that people of all races and origins live, play, and share all our different world musics and cultures together as one united race, without fear – one love!”

“Unfailingly high-spirited.” London Times

“This is a band that must be heard to be believed!” WFUV

“Americana music at its purest and most impressive.” No Depression

“It’s unlike anything most listeners will find elsewhere.” San Diego Troubadour

“Remarkable musical dexterity with songs that bask in a genuine roots regimen and a sense of timeless tradition.” Elmore Magazine