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MUSIC lovers seeking a unique sound and energetic delivery will be sated when Sound of KoKo performs at the Kiama Jazz and Blues Festival this weekend.
Singer Kachina Lewis, originally from Sydney but now living in Mangerton has roots in hip-hop as well as an interest in house music.
The sextet, whose other members hail from Wollongong, Kiama and Sutherland, perform an eclectic fusion of jazz, soul, funk and tribal sounds, with a dash of hip-hop.
Lewis said the music was also significantly influenced by her native American Indian and African-American heritage.
‘‘That’s why I connect so much to the blues music like Nina Simone,’’ she said.
‘‘I feel very connected to the jazz and blues because of that.
‘‘My grandmother was full American native Indian, and she passed a few weeks back.
‘‘When I sing a lot of the time, I’m thinking of her childhood and upbringing.
‘‘It’s something strong within me; I connect my roots with the music.’’
For that reason, the front-woman, who is currently working on a Sound of KoKo album, said songwriting was an emotional experience.
‘‘I connect with the environment, and they’re very true to life,’’ she said.
‘‘My journey, and what I’ve seen.’’
The band’s shows at the festival will be an even split of original works and popular covers.
Lewis said punters could expect plenty of energy.
‘‘You can’t compare a CD or anything to live,’’ she said.
‘‘You get to connect with all the musicians.
‘‘It’s a whole different energy; quite a powerful, sultry soul sound.
‘‘They’re all very talented musicians; I’m very fortunate to be supported by such amazing people.’’
The vocalist said although not a cornerstone of their sound, her rapping would feature in a song or two.
Lewis (formerly known as Lady K) cited her major influences in that field as The Roots and Amy Winehouse’s collaborations with hip-hop artists.
Her resume includes supporting acts like The Pharcyde, collaborating with Bliss N Eso and participating in MC battles.
‘‘The hip-hop, sometimes it’s very sporadic... I might do a freestyle,’’ she said.
‘‘I sometimes don’t even know when I’m going to do it.
‘‘I’m a poetic hip-hop artist.
‘‘I basically just put hip-hop with jazz and infuse it all.
‘‘It’s a very unique mix; I don’t think anybody’s doing it.’’
Sound of KoKo are: Kachina Lewis vocals, Doug Faulkner - bass, Guy Munro - guitar, Gino Vellonio - keyboard, Greg Clark - drums and Grant Merinuk sax.
Sound of KoKo
Blue Diamond Bar, Sebel Harbourside on Saturday, March 7 from 5pm-7pm
and at All Day Jazz & Blues Concert
Hindmarsh Park, Sunday, March 8 at 11am