Interview with Arise Roots--NEW album, Love & War, out 8/5!!

[Lori Hatmaker]

Interview with Karim of Arise Roots

How did Arise Roots meet and decide to form a roots reggae band?

Karim:  That's always a fun question because we initially met on Craigslist LOL. Los Angeles has a pretty extensive music community and there are a ton of musicians linking up all over the place. I remember responding to some guys who were trying to develop a roots reggae project. There were a lot of people who are exploring the sub-genres of reggae but "roots" is what ultimately brought us together. We LOVE roots reggae!

What about your music do you think sets you apart from other artists in the genre?

Karim:  I'm convinced that California is second to none when it comes to quantity and quality of reggae bands in the US. The talent pool out here is ridiculous, which makes the ground fertile for the genre but also makes it a little harder to shine. What sets us apart from the rest is our dedication and passion for roots reggae music. We want to preserve a level of roots and culture, while simultaneously progressing the sound and boundaries of roots music. We feel that our message is the primary focal point in our music. Without the message, the music would be a hollow shell, like a body without a soul. We want to feed the soul!

What message do you hope to spread through your new album, Love & War?

Karim:  The message that we are trying to send with Love & War is a message of love, respect, peace, action, responsibility, awareness, and faith!

What is the meaning behind the album's title, Love & War?
Karim:  The concept of "war" is referring to its literal meaning of international and civil war that we observed as the songs were being written. War also refers to the internal conflicts that we face on a regular basis of our lives. We all have issues that we are warring against in our hearts and minds. Love is an action. Love is respect. Love is a responsibility. Love is universal. Love conquers all because no evil can exist in its' presence!

Arise Roots has shared the stage with so many talented artists. Who was a favorite to work with and why?

Karim:  There are so many AMAZING people that we have been blessed to play with but my personal favorites have been Midnite, The Wailers, Anthony B, Barrington Levy, Public Enemy, and Tribal Seeds. I had to cut the list off because I could name so many more awesome musicians! I feel like a very fortunate youth (pun is intended! LOL)

What was your experience recording this new album?

Karim:  This recording experience was absolutely incredible! Working with E.N. Young has been one of the greatest experiences that I have had musically. He is very good at what he does. I feel that he was able to capture our sound in a unique way that has not been done before. In Imperial Sound Studios, he has created a very first-class operation; while maintaining a very warm, personal feel. Even though we spent hours and hours there, it never ceased being a fun experience. We are thoroughly excited for everyone to hear the results!

What is next for Arise Roots?

Karim:  Next on the agenda for Arise Roots is the Album release party on August 2nd at La Cita, which is located in the heart of downtown LA. The CD is going to be available everywhere on August 5th and after that we are trying to get out there and spread our roots as much as possible! We have a few music videos in the works right now, including the video for "Dangerous" with Matthew Liufau of Seedless, so stay tuned for those! Our show dates are listed on our Facebook page as well as on our website, www.ariseroots.com and www.reverbnation.com. We really appreciate Surf Roots for everything they have done and to continue to do, not only for us but for the whole scene! Thank you soooo much!

Be sure to pick up Arise Roots new album Love & War on August 5th! It truly is an amazing album and has a lot of guest appearances.

-Lori Hatmaker