D'Moja

If you have seen D’Moja perform live, you know why the founders chose the Swahili name meaning “we are one”; the band’s appeal is both diverse and universal. Few are able to resist their unique yet contagious music, and show after show, folks from all walks of life find themselves shaking it ‘til curtain call. With band leader Brandon Klarich and his long time friend William Noel laying down searing percussion solos, young phenoms Zach Tonnisen and Tom Morse contributing soulful horn melodies, and Andy Suits leading a skankin’ bass and drum section, D'Moja offers a truly extraordinary experience.

The group was formed in the late eighties by Mark and Ochazania Klarich. Over the nearly 20 years of the band’s existence, many talented musicians and dancers have been involved. Currently, the band is a collaboration of the next generation, led by Brandon Klarich, youngest son of Ochazania and Mark. D’Moja embodies the connection between music and dance, taking inspiration from the traditional rhythms of the African diaspora, as well as from contemporary music including hip-hop, jazz and latin. The sounds of D’Moja have been compared to artists such as Ozomatli, Santana, and Fela Kuti.

D’Moja has opened for national and international acts such as Culture and Steel Pulse and has performed at various venues including the Vermont Reggae Festival, the Soul Revival Festival, the Portsmouth Blues Festival, and has become a fixture at the Rutland First Night Celebration. In addition to headlining at venues all over Vermont, the group has toured in places such as Hamburg, Germany and Amsterdam. D’Moja is currently producing their third album.