Groundation

Groundation is American roots reggae band with jazz and dub influences from Sonoma County in Northern California.

It all began in the fall of 1998 by Harrison Stafford, Marcus Urani, and Ryan Newman, Groundation began on the campus of Sonoma State University's Jazz Program. Between 1999 and 2001, Harrison Stafford taught the first course on the History of Reggae Music at Sonoma State University. In 1999, Stafford teamed up with Kris Dilbeck to found Young Tree Records and release Groundation's debut album of the same name. "Groundation" comes from the Rasta term "Grounation." Grounation Day (April 21) is an important Rastafarian holy day, and second after Coronation Day (November 2). It is celebrated in honor of Haile Selassie's 1966 visit to Jamaica.

The 9-piece band creates an altogether new Reggae sound, featuring swirling, jazz/funk inspired horns, stout Latin and African based poly-rhythmics, and soulful harmony vocals. Their concerts utilize live improvisation, in classic jazz fashion, and are renowned for their high energy, communion-type atmosphere. Having gained international notoriety for their progressive fusion style, Groundation regularly headlines major international festivals (Nice Jazz Fest, Summerjam, Sunsplash) and play to huge crowds the world over.


My favorite song`s from Groundation