Instrumentation
Arturo Escamilla - Drums, Percussion, Backing Vocals
Ross Jarrett - Percussion, Harmonica, Backing Vocals
Rich Marcil - 12-String Acoustic Guitar, E-Bow, Mandolin
Thuan Nguyen - Bass Guitar
Biography
The Forefathers are an instrumental ensemble based in Orlando, Florida, performing original Acoustic World Music Fusion. Formed in 2005, the band blends various genres such as Celtic, New Age, African, Folk, and Rock into an energizing and uplifting sound. In July 2007, The Forefathers were voted \"Best Acoustic Act\" in the Central Florida area by The Orlando Weekly.
Tracks from the CD Manataka, including \"Mountain Rose\", \"Awake\", \"Manataka\", and \"Silhouettes\", have appeared on National Public Radio\'s popular \"Echoes\" program hosted by John Diliberto in 2007 and 2008. \"Mountain Rose\" has also been selected for the 2008 CD compilation \"Tribute to Stuart Adamson\" (late singer/guitarist of Big Country).
The Forefathers have performed many well-received live shows. The band has played the Florida Folk Festival, Taste of the Nation at Dolphin Disney Resort, International New Age Trade Show, Orlando Fringe Festival, the Orlando Science Center, various art festivals, clubs, benefit shows, & convention shows.
\"Manataka\", the band\'s 2nd CD, is comprised of 12 tracks of The Forefathers unique sound. The story behind the new CD is this: Hot Springs National Park is known to most people as a place of recreation. To Native Americans, this region was, and continues to be, a mystical and sacred ground known as Manataka. For thousands of years, Native peoples would pilgrimage to Manataka at regular intervals to celebrate peace. Even nations at war with each other would put aside their disputes to meet at Manataka. The music on this CD is inspired by the themes of Manataka: peace, healing, respect for our natural world, and a harmonious bond between all peoples of Earth.
Velocity Magazine (June 2008) stated: \"Manataka is superb and richly textured. Its global essence is obvious and will stir your soul. Manataka resurrects the vision and the incredible zeal our hearts all hold for peace all over the world.\"
The Forefathers released their well-received, self-titled, debut CD in February 2006. That CD consisted of 12 tracks of the band\'s unique blend of World, Celtic, Acoustic, & Rock genres. The songs \"Solstice\" & \"Reverie\" received airplay on radio programs such as Upbeat Radio, Radio Crystal Blue, Acoustic Fuel, & Local Music Cafe.
Discography
\"The Forefathers\" - debut self-titled CD, released 2006
\"Manataka\" - 2nd CD, released 2007
\"Comfort & Joy\" - Holiday EP, released 2007
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