The Alchemystics
Intricate wordplay, soulful roots, memorable hooks, old-school vocal harmonies, and intense passion are but a few of the elements which combine to form the powerful and unmistakable sound of the Alchemystics.
Fueled by the belief that music could expand beyond the boundaries of style and categories, the Alchemystics first formed as a trio in 2003. They worked to create a sound that reflected their love of heavy rhythms, reggae, hip hop, soul and dub, while also infusing earthy vocal harmonies to create truly original music. True to their name, The Alchemystics have transformed into their current lineup of diverse and talented musicians, including the vocal stylings of Ras Jahn and Ian-I, the intricate lyrics of emcee Force, and the deep groove of drummer Demse Zullo, world-traveled bassist Garrett Sawyer, and keyboardist Jay Metcalf.
The Alchemystics have shared stages with such international music luminaries as Stephen Marley, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Clipse, Damian Marley, Sister Carol, The Coup, Dennis Brown, Inner circle, Busta Rhymes, Yellow Man, Burning Spear, Gil Scott Heron, Culture, ShineHead, Angelique Kidjo, Mighty Sparrow, The Brazilian Girls, Israel Vibrations, English Beat, Bonnie Raitt, King Sunny Ade, and Taj Mahal.
Performing live, the Alchemystics specialize in high-energy, captivating performances which get crowds jumping and dancing to what they like to call their “new roots music” combining elements both traditional and fresh. Venues to date include a wide array of settings from festivals (including Vermont Reggae Festival, Strange Creek, Wormtown Music Festival, Charlemont Reggae Fest), clubs and dancehalls (including Pearl Street Ballroom, Iron Horse Music Hall, Paradise Rock Club, Middle East, Harpers Ferry, Toads Place), colleges and universities (including University of Massachusetts, Trinity College, Colby Sawyer College), and ski areas such as Ascutney, Whale Back, and Mount Wachusett.
The Alchemystics firmly embrace the notion of music and art as vital tools to bring about social change in our communities. Individually and collectively, the members of the Alchemystics have made it a priority to give back to their local community, working closely with the community youth and lending their musical talents to raise funds for causes such as the Massachusetts Red Ribbon Ride, and the Northampton Survival Center, Victims of Hurricane Katrina, Darfur Relief, AIDS awareness, and domestic abuse awareness. Members have also guest lectured and performed at a number of schools in the Northeast.
