MUSIC

As is reflected in their moniker, Occidental Gypsy has pioneered the sound of American gypsy pop. The sound of this ensemble is reflected in their very diverse backgrounds. Scottie (Pop Boy), Jeff (Old Man Rocker), Brett (Djangodinger), Jakub (Jazzolin), and Francisco (The Boxman) are all immersed in this fresh and exhilarating new approach to the classic Gypsy repertoire which serves as the foundation for the band's originals. The group feels that success lies not just in a unique approach but also in the execution of expertly arranged high energy music presented in both recorded and live performances. The improvisation and innovation of their sound harkens back to the spirit of gypsy swing while incorporating contemporary western (i.e. Occidental) themes to produce pop music with a vintage feel. As a corollary, Occidental Gypsy has taken a retro sound foreign to many ears and has infused the music of today with it to produce a version of "Thriller" that is fresh but also edgy.

The members of the band not only play gypsy but also live it. Scene: Scott, driving around in his car so over filled with instruments and dirty clothes that he should apply for a caravan license, overhears the unique sound of an Eimers guitar. Brett is playing it shirtless on a park bench for no one but himself. "Yo dude grab your guitar if you can find it in there and you better be ready to play!" Hours later the Indus was formed. Jeff playing standard gypsy jazz with his younger brother like so many Roma families acquiesces to his minor sibling’s wishes in this and only this realm. Scott calls on several of his Berklee companions, Jakub and Francisco, to finish the job: Occidental Gypsy is born!

The band's debut album Over Here, officially released in 2011, is quickly receiving acclaim. In live performances the band compliments their original tunes with contemporary covers and timeless gypsy (Django) covers such as Minor Swing, and Michael Jackson's Thriller! If it isn't obvious already, suffice it to say, the band is more than just four musicians. They are energetic and charming entertainers who interact with fans and audiences in a very comical, endearing if not sometimes edgy way. Their spirited performances and attitude are exciting for young audiences while the old favorites presented in a fresh format appeals to the more mature crowd. But it is the songs from their new record which seals the deal. Occidental Gypsy gives audiences what they want; unabashed enjoyment and that all important parting gift…the unrelenting hook.

Currently the band is in its "break-out" phase, meaning they're not famous yet! Comfortable at nightclubs, festivals, centers for the arts, concert series', or anything else that comes their way, they're taking the nation by storm. It is an honor every time the group is introduced to a new audience and particularly when they can introduce the gypsy vibe to the uninitiated. With an ever growing presence online through its social networking, O.G.'s fan base is expanding exponentially. They won't be satisfied until they are playing in Space.

Web Site: http://www.occidentalgypsy.com