The Approach

What do you get when you combine the likes of Reggae, Hip-Hop and Rock? Not sure? Well on Nov 16, 2013 The Approach showed a packed Jazzbones house that what you get is one heck of a good time. The Approach formed in April 2012 combining sounds of Reggae, Hip Hop, and Rock! As a four piece, they continue to work hard at bringing fun music to the local scene. From playing sold out shows, to small crowds the energy is consistent. Lyrical content is a must as well as defining a new sound to the reggae and live music community. The Approach is one of the latest additions to Mental Itch Music Group. Brothers Joseph and Jeramey Abarca are joined by Sam Morrow and Bret “Beo” Baile to make up the band. Together the foursome combines to produce a seamless and unique cross genre blend of feel-good music that ignites and energizes everyone in ears shot. The group, drawing influence from A Tribe Called Quest, 311 and others, threw down with an incredibly smooth sounding and free flowing set of lyrics backed with a funky, reggae inspired beat and a set of fierce face melting guitar solos. v The Approach’s presence on stage and their unique approach to music overtook and filled the room with good vibes. The seemingly standing room only Jazzbones crowd danced, bopped and rocked to The Approach’s nearly one hour set leaving no doubt that Abarca and crew know how to throw a party. The funk filled night was brought to an end with The Approach coming back on stage for a one song encore that undoubtedly led to an after party of epic proportions. The release of their self titled album should leave little to no doubt that The Approach’s approach to music has amassed huge cross genre appeal. Their following is sure to only grow larger and with their ability to appeal to the masses the foursome is on target to take the music industry by storm with their unique brand of music. - Christian Hamilton

A cursory look at the Tacoma reggae quartet The Approach's debut record suggests the band favors upbeat rhythms over the lazy, laid-back tempos preferred by too many of its contemporaries. This gives the songs an exceptionally strong rhythmic backbone. Combining hip-hop, reggae, rock and ska, the band isn't afraid to throw in some unexpected tricks, such as shredding guitars and a few Anthony Kiedes-like interludes. Although some of the songs go on a bit long, they rarely sound self-indulgent. No, instead they sound like a party, which is exactly what the band's live shows bust out. Drop by Jazzbones Saturday night for The Approach's CD release party with Vividal and Mighty High setting the tone - emphasis on "party." - Ron Swarner