The homegrown Columbus jam band ekoostik hookah is returning to Athens tonight to cultivate its psychedelic improvisational sound for its fans.
Ekoostik hookah has been jamming in Ohio through nearly 15 years, 12,000 shows in 30 states and eight albums. Since 1991 the band has been spreading the good vibes that come from its hybrid blend of psych-rock, blues, funk, jazz and bluegrass.
The sextet has kept a strict focus on its live show over the years, neglecting to spend much time in the studio. It has been three years since the band's last album, Ohio Grown
and it has vague plans of a follow-up record.
We've got a lot of new songs but we're more of a touring live band drummer Eric Lanese said. Its not like we develop songs to record -we develop songs to play because that's what we do.
In its 15 years together, the band's lineup has changed little; the most recent addition, percussionist John Polansky, joined in 1999. Originally a sit-in musician, Polansky became an official member after his live contributions and work on Seahorse in 2001.
They added me probably because I bugged them so much
Polansky said. The percussion rounds out the acoustics of the sound with the groove of the congas and cymbalas and the color of the shakers and bells to give the band a fuller effect.
One of ekoostik hookah's most famous contributions to the Columbus music scene has been the two-day home-thrown Hookahville music festival. This biannual celebration began in the band-manager's backyard and has grown to attendances that exceed 15,000 people.
Ekoostik hookah has begun planning for the next Hookahville on Memorial Day weekend. In the past, legends like Parliament/Funkadelic, David Crosby and Willie Nelson have played the festival. But Lanese said he is uncertain of any big surprises for the upcoming event.
We always try and get as good a lineup as possible
Lanese said. I'm not sure we have anybody confirmed yet
except for the Wailers.
Lanese jokingly attributed love as the defining reason for the band's long-running career. But overall, it is the band's enjoyment of playing together.
There are worse jobs in the world
Lanese said. We all consider ourselves lucky to have this job for so long. Having people dig what you do makes you want to keep doing it.
Ekoostik hookah will take the stage at 9 tonight at the Blue Gator, 63 N. Court St. Admission is $15.
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Blake Gillespie
