Kaura (pronounced kay-aura) was born from the vision of infusing the aggressive power of hard, yet melodic rock with the haunting and ethereal sounds of ancient instruments. In the short time since the band formed in 2005, they have been invited to open for TOOL, Rob Zombie, and Godsmack by Bill Graham Presents, and had A Perfect Circle’s Paz Lenchantin play on their self-released EP, which has gotten attention as well as continued airplay on radio stations including L.A.'s "World Famous" KROQ FM. In addition, they traveled to the distant lands of India, Thailand, Bali, Cambodia, Laos, and Nepal to seek out instruments and experiences to fully realize their vision; all of which was captured on video and made into their “Travels” DVD.
“We wanted to have the ability to infuse hammered dulcimers with distorted guitars, gamelan bells and tabla with tribal drums to create this really expansive depth of sound." Benjamin explains. The Berkeley-based band came to be after many years of envisioning the message, mood, sights and sounds that would be used to create the unique palette from which the vision of Kaura would be painted. Comprised of Malcolm Guess (vocals, guitar, tabla), Benjamin Jones (drums, percussion), Michael Cates (bass), Ben Rojas(guitar)and Yosh(hammered dulcimer, gamelan, percussion); the band sought to not only carve out a unique musical voice but also a different lyrical voice. "The lyrical focus is more on themes of evolution, re-birth, social and personal consciousness rather than the standard self-loathing, angry at-the-world fare of most hard rock bands" says Guess. Drawing from his experience as a sound engineer, Guess recorded and produced Kaura’s self-titled 5-song EP released in mid 2005.
Returning from their travels in early 2006, they began writing material with their new instruments and the inspiration of their adventures. Though they have accomplished and created a lot in the short amount of time being a band, Guess suggests “We’ve but only hinted at what’s to come”.
long time no talk bros, wtf is up yo?! haha nuthin over here just at the desk another day again hahaha... so have u guys played around Seattle / Tacoma area in Washington yet?!!!! i'll get hundreds of people to go via socialnetworking if u guys happen to stop by! laterrrrr! (You are what you think about)
Just watched the Sylvia Massey vidblog..can't wait to get the new album, so good to see you guys again(even on video!) Hope all goes well for you guys!
You guys are working with Sylvia Massy??? I hate you in the best way possible. This album is going to rock too much, I think you might have to tone it down a bit. : )
I saw you all in Louisiana, I know it might have been a small show but it was so amazing and inspiring. Thank you all so much I appreciate the heart put into your perfomance and how kind you were off stage. Thanks again, you guys better come back soon,but to Slidell, Louisiana!
hey guys!!!!! I know its a long strech but try to make it to south florida!!!! last year i got a hold of your cd and played in my university radio station and it got well recieved!!!
We've waited a while for you guys to play a show out here and I'm glad we were able to make it last night, you guys kicked ass. I'm lovin the new songs and can't wait to buy the album.
Also would like to add that I highly approve of the Kaura panties...
