Getting to know our ReverbNation winner the High Hopes band!

[Katie Jo]

Zeke R. Carlson - Drum/Percussion, Jason "Jay" Dick - Vocals/Guitar, Julie "Jules" Feola - Bass, Sebastian Franks - Vocals/Guitar, AJ Maynard - Drums, Paddy McDonnell - Keyboards/Organs/Piano

Inteview by Katie Jo Cassidy

Tell us a little about High Hopes sound
The High Hopes sound can be described as the organic influences of 70's reggae/drum&bass/dub and a hint of R&B, with 2 part harmonies that delivers a smooth-flowing modern roots reggae style

What are the bands influences? Is there an artist/ band that you try and emulate?
Our influences are many and we probably won't hit everyone, but here it goes; Dennis Brown, Burning Spear, The Marley Family, Pablo Moses, Culture, King Tubby, The Meditations, Studio One & Channel One Artists of the 70's, Maxwell, Bad Brains, popular American Music late 60's-90's. We don't necessarily try to emulate anyone in particular, just try to get our songs across and play off the audience.

Your new album "Forever Love" drops this month, what is your favorite song from the album?                       “Thinking About”

Any plans to tour? Will you be making your way to the West Coast?
This Fall we'll be playing the New England area at various venues, keep an eye on our Bandsintown for details. We're also in the middle of planning our return to the U.S. Virgin Islands for our 3rd year of touring, making St. Croix our home for the month. Dates are looking like Feb 2-23rd. High Hopes is definitely planning a West Coast tour for May or June of 2015. We're hoping to make new friends and meet some old time ones we haven't seen in a while.

What is the best part of living on the East Coast?
One of the best parts of living on the East Coast, or more so in New England, is the ability to travel to over 7 states all in a relatively short amount of time. Every state has their own vibe and scene, but are amazingly welcoming. Being a part of the roots reggae revival on the East Coast is definitely another plus!!

What is something interesting about High Hopes that people don't know?
- Jason and Julie are husband and wife (jr. high sweethearts)
- 3 members of our group went to the same very small college at different years, but never met
- 2 other members attended grade school together and rekindled a friendship after 20 years of not seeing each other
- We can tell you where to grab a good meal at 3:00 am along the New England Seaboard

You can check out and buy the new album Forever Love by clicking here Forever Love

Thank you to the High Hopes Band!!!