Biography
Down Lo embodies what it is to be a hard working American band. Since forming in the Twin Cities area in 2002 from humble Minnesota beginnings, the DL has played over 500 shows in the past 3 years across the United States. Their dedication and hard work has paid off with multiple performances at major fests such as 10,000 Lakes, Wakarusa, Summerfest, The Big Wu Family Reunion, HarvestFest, Log Jam, Bella Sol, Bella Luna, Schwagstock and countless other musical gatherings. The band blends a uniquely diverse combination of spiritual lyrics, rasta undertones, hip-hop influences, and straight up dirty funk, with a "jam friendly" vibe attracting an established and growing fan base.
Their sophomore album, "In Our World", is a much anticipated collaboration with Los Angeles-based writer/rapper Deploi, now available in stores, at shows and online. Deploi is no stranger to the road and will continue to tour with the band throughout 2008 and beyond.
Down Lo's musical diversity is a reflection of its components. Lead guitar player Mark Grundhoefer and bass player Ryan Nielson have connected musically on and off for over a decade. Grundhoefer is a straight up musical force and guitar prodigy, Nielson studied at the famed Music Institute in California, and brings a wealth of musical knowledge to the band. Drummer Mike Cini is the most recent addition to the project adding another unique range of influences and ideas. Rounding out the sound is multi-instrumentalist Will Nissen (Keyboards, Sax, Vocals), whose ability to adapt and change on stage makes the places the group can go musically exciting for both band and fans alike.
Down Lo has no plan of slowing down. With an established presence in the Rocky Mountain Region, and their home turf in the Midwest, the group is looking to establish an increased presence in the American South and on the East Coast. The DL hopes and plans to continually grow both musically and spiritually in the years to come.
Author - Turner Berg
COLLEGES PLAYED
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh
Depaul University (Chicago, IL)
Marquette University (Milwaukee, WI)
Denver University
Carleton College (Northfield, MN)
Northland College (Ashland, WI)
AWARDS/ACCOMPLISHMENTS
"Ain't It A Shame" has seen placement on MTV's Real World: Sydney and "Take Care" has seen placement on MTV's Real World/Road Rules Challenge
Live performance on Twin Cities WB television station
The band has played over 500 shows in the last 3 years
National acts performed with: Lyrics Born, Particle, Robert Randolph, Melvin Seals, Chali 2na (Jurassic 5), Afroman, Pnuma Trio, Wyclef Jean, The Big Wu, Stephen Perkins (Jane's Addiction), George Clinton, North Indiana Allstars (feat members of moe and Umphrey's McGee), Great American Taxi, Vince Herman (Leftover Salmon)
Festivals performed at: 3 years booked at 10,000 Lakes Festival (Detroit Lakes, MN), Wakarusa (Lawrence, KS), Summerfest (Milwaukee, WI), Schwagstock (Salem, MO), HarvestFest (Harmony Park, MN), Big Wu Family Reunion (Harmony Park, MN), Bella Luna & Bella Sol (Harmony Park, MN), Log Jam (Isle, MN) Fibark Fest (Salida, CO)
Booking contact information:
DreamScapers
Jennifer Blair
jennifer@seethemusic.net
(612) 216-4124
Instrumentation
Mark Grundhoefer - Guitar, Lead Vocals
Ryan Nielsen - Bass, Vocals
Mike Cini - Drums, Vocals
Will Nissen - Keyboards, Tenor Sax, Vocals
Discography
Collaboration album "In Our World" with Los Angeles based rapper Deploi released independently in December 2007
Full length original record "Lead My Way" released March 2006 on Fuzzy Slipper Music Label - St Paul, MN
5 track live sampler released in July 2005
Links
| http://www.downlotunes.com |