Ultraviolet Hippopotamus returns to Columbus, April 21 at Woodlands Tavern with Jahman Brahman

Ultraviolet Hippopotamus

Ultraviolet Hippopotamus w/Jahman Brahman

Woodlands Tavern (1200 West Third Avenue, Columbus, OH)
Saturday, April 21, 2012
$10, 18+
Doors: 9pm
Show: 10pm

Ultraviolet Hippopotamus is an explosive five-piece progressive improvisational band with a rapidly growing fan base across the U.S. and, more recently, Europe. Described as “brightening the future of the jam band scene,” Ultraviolet Hippopotamus mixes tight, funky jams with new dance beats, heartfelt lyrics, compelling composition, eccentric effects and a vibrant light show for an incredible, one-of-a-kind musical experience. Known for its on-stage musical alchemy – cultivated from years of relentless touring – the band performs an eclectic selection of technically demanding compositions and improvised material along with unconventional and fun covers.

The group deftly journeys between funk, jazz, livetronica, space rock, reggae, bluegrass, and progressive rock within a single show and, sometimes, within a single song. Exploring new ground and taking risks make every performance unique, and fans are never sure what exactly the band will deliver each night; other than exceptional music.

Anyone remotely familiar with the ‘jam band sound’ will immediately recognize Ultraviolet Hippopotamus’ influences and genre-mixing musical objectives, but the band adds a level of talent, intricacy and polish that truly sets it apart. Tight, energetic jams and outstanding vocals — a true rarity among the band’s peers — coupled with the act’s spontaneity and strong songwriting add to its appeal. The word is out, and the band is quickly developing into an international sensation.

Last year was huge for the nationally touring band. It’s highly praised third album, “Square Pegs, Round Holes,” reached No. 3 and spent much of the year in the top 25 of the Relix Magazine/Jambands.com National Radio Chart. The album was also voted “2011 Studio Album of the Year” at the Home Grown Music Network, and received similar nominations from several radio programs, among other acclaim. The album continues to sell steadily and receives airplay across the U.S. as well as internationally in Italy, Brazil, France, Switzerland, England, Spain, Germany and other countries. Also, guitarist Russell Olmsted joined the likes of Jimmy Herring and John Bell (Widespread Panic), Jake Cinninger (Umphrey’s McGee), Hunter Brown (STS9), Luther Dickinson (North Mississippi Allstars), Warren Haynes (Gov’t Mule), Derek Trucks and Dweezil Zappa in being sponsored and named a “featured artist” by Fuchs Audio, makers of boutique guitar amplifiers and FX pedals. Bassist Brian Samuels was endorsed by Eden bass amps in 2011, joining bassists like Mike Gordon (Phish), Phil Lesh (Furthur), Charlie Hunter, Kai Eckhardt (Garaj Mahal); and keyboard player Dave Sanders received an endorsement from Dave Smith Instruments as well. Despite the achievements obtained in 2011, however, the band anticipates accomplishing even more in the coming year.

www.uvhippomusic.com