Band: The Beatroot Road; Musicians: Mark Russell: Bodhrán, timbale, conga, cabassa, tambourine, bass, guitar and synth; Hazel Fairbairn: Violins), Lucinia Karrey: Vocals; and Fuki Anditi Julson: Backing vocals

Single: ‘Underground Roots;’ Single/Music Video Released: October 11, 2024/October 5, 2024; Producer: Russell

Infusing adventurously fun and encouraging lyrics with alluringly vibrant African and Latin-inspired instrumentation leads to an ambitious musical journey. The newly formed alternative musical collective, the North Vancouver District-based The Beatroot Road, has recently released the music video for its debut single, ‘Underground Roots.’ The acoustic surf-pop-driven song is driven by its powerful message of hope.

Led by multi-instrumentalist Mark Russell and violinist Hazel Fairbairn, the band will release a new track every six weeks, culminating in an album in the spring of 2025. The first single from The Beatroot Road, which it wrote with the late Demmy James, highlights the strength of roots to withstand the seasonal changes of the overground world, whether they be in plants, music or life.

Russell and Fairbairn, who are joined by several talented, well-established artists, including Kenyan vocalist Lucinda Karrey, infuse traditional and eclectic, inventive pop instrumentation into ‘Underground Roots.’ The most noteworthy aspect of the tune’s distinct musical landscape is Russell playing all of its complex drum beats, the standout being the bodhrán, which is a traditional Irish drum. The bodhrán’s pulsating beats are aided by such traditional African instruments as the conga and cabassa. The collective’s talent is also showcased on the bass, surf guitar and synth, which are all also performed by Russell.

‘Underground Roots’ video also features a fun, enthralling fusion. It combines multiple layers of 3D animation from Griang and Mesut C. from Türkiye. Live footage of Karrey, which was shot in Kenya by Alfie, is also playfully interposed over the ever-evolving animation.

‘Underground Roots’ is a daring intellectual experiment that truly succeeds in its mission. The uplifting anthem of resilience blends African and Latin rhythms with profound lyrics that reflect the enduring strength of both literal and metaphorical roots. Aided by Karreys rousing lead vocals, Russell’s intricate percussion work accentuates the band’s innovative fusion style.

For more information on The Beatroot Road, visit its official website, as well as its
Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, Spotify, Apple, Boomplay and YouTube pages.