Calling The Spirits: An Evening of Mystical Mantra Music with Sean Johnson and the Wild Lotus Band

Sunday Evening, April 13

Savor the spicy grooves and dreamy melodies of this beloved New Orleans band who put a funky, mystic twist on kirtan, the mantric music of India. Sean and the band have been receiving international attention for their delightful music that subtly merges the spirit of India with the soul of New Orleans. The band tours nationwide seeking to inspire freedom through the blissful power of music and chant. They have received glowing reviews of their latest album Calling The Spirits, quickly becoming a favorite soundtrack at yoga studios across the country. "Calling The Spirits is destined to become one of the most well regarded recordings in the world of chant music." says Bette Timm of Aura Magazine. Grammy nominated world music pioneer Jai Uttal says, “Sean’s voice is a warm, soothing river of serenity.”

The band includes the ecstatic vocals of Sean who also plays the  harmonium-- the Indian pump driven organ; the spirited percussion of Gwendolyn Colman on frame drums, cajon, high hat, and other percussion instruments; and longtime New Orleans groove master Alvin Young on fretless bass.  Renowned yoga teacher Saul David Raye, founder of Los Angeles’ Sacred Movement studio says, “A musical gumbo to stir your soul. Sean has the voice of a deva, an angel - and the band is full of swing, soul, rock, jazz and healing vibrations.” In a recent review, Yoga Journal praised the band, “A joy to listen to whether you’re a yogi, a jazz connoisseur, or anyone who appreciates wildly creative music.”

This evening’s concert will consist of call-and-response chanting and mantra-based songs that soothe your soul in one moment and drive you into wild celebration in the next. Sean will also share inspiring stories and insights about the healing power of mantra and music. Traditionally at the end of the concert the band invites everyone to lay down as they offer a calming lullaby to send participants home into dreamy relaxation. Sean says, “Like gospel music and other forms of musical devotion on the planet, kirtan music is an incredible way to lift your spirit and celebrate life. We create a comfortable  atmosphere where people feel really free and open to explore this transformative music in their own way-- whether that’s singing along, dancing, or resting into the grooves.”

Tickets: $20. Purchase Tickets. Read More about The Wild Lotus Band and Sean.