The Spirit Theory

THE SPIRIT THEORY'S music is a combination of two different views: One takes personal, spiritual and philosophical lyrics that come from a female perspective - the other is dark and moody music that comes from a male perspective. This "Yin-Yang" approach has brought about a somewhat ethereal and trippy vibe, while still being melodic and alternative/pop enough to be catchy and radio friendly.

Musically, the sound may take on a more melancholy feel, but lyrically, the songs are positive and thought-provoking, getting their inspiration from Eastern and Native American philosophies. They're visceral as well as emotional. They'll always give you something to contemplate and reflect upon.

Singer NIKKI BOYER'S deeply personal and introspective lyrics combine with BLAIR PICKAR'S soulful guitar makes for a powerful song writing team. Nikki's lyrics take shape with the help of Blair's interests in Eastern and Native American philosophies and Nikki's emotional freedom and vocal abilities help guide Blair's music. "It's hard not to be inspired by her voice." Blair says. "She's just so expressive and she sings with such emotion."

"We wanted to create songs that reached into the spirit of ourselves," Nikki explained, "as well as the listeners."

Over the past three years, the band's sound has been slowly and meticulously honed to perfection. Drummer FABIAN CARBONE, influenced by the hard rock drummers of the 80's, and bassist BRAIN GIBERSON, getting his style from the great funk players of the 70's, tie "The Spirit Theory's" soulful rhythm section together with tight grooves and a subtle "funkiness." The musical ensemble is completed as classically trained pianist JILL ALTEMUS adds the perfect blend of atmosphere and harmonious balance to the group's strong melodies.

Playing locally in the Los Angeles area, The Spirit Theory is predominantly an acoustic band, performing mostly in coffeehouses and smaller clubs such as Genghis Cohen, Molly Malone's, Space 6507, Highland Grounds and The Gig. By playing these smaller venues, the bands intimate and introspective vibe is emphasized - something that can often get lost in the bigger, louder rock clubs.

"The closer the audience can get, the more intimate our performances become." Nikki says, "We feel much more connected to everyone around us."

But whether in a quiet coffeehouse or in a loud club, it's difficult to take your eyes off Nikki. She has a way of losing herself in the moment and can be so emotionally giving, it's not rare to see a few audience members shed a tear at some point during a performance. She has a way of simply... connecting.

- Heroine Chick

Female-fronted, acoustic/adult-alternative with philosophical lyrics and an ethereal, yet radio-friendly sound. The new millennium's version of The Sunday's. At first listen, their songs may be considered more "pop" than anything else, but there is a lot more going on than just the normal verse/chorus/verse/chorus song structure. Despite the "hooks," it's the earthy guitars, funky bass lines, trippy loops and ethereal effects that seperate these songs from others. - Rockband.com

The Spirit Theory's "The Calmness in the Riot"... essentially, this CD is a collection of "life lessons" set to intersting and dark, yet catchy and radio-friendly alternative/pop music.

Those who expect a little more intelligence and content from the music they listen to will truly enjoy and appreciate what The Spirit Theory is all about. This CD gives the listener something to think about and reflect upon. Each song has a different story to tell, a lesson to be learned, or a different perspective to be pondered. They will stir emotions, raise the spirit and transport you to a new place.

Lead singer Nikki Boyer (from TLC's "Perfect Proposal"), while quite beautiful (check out her lay-out in the April 2004 issue of "Stuff" magazine!), isn't just another empty-headed "Britney" clone who only cares about her image and her choreographed dance moves - nor is she another "Ashley Simpson-type" who can't even sing at all!! Quite the opposite. It's the EMOTION in her strong voice and the QUALITY of the lyrics that will draw music fans to her and the band. Her words are intelligent, philosophical and well thought out, yet she doesn't come off as pretentious or "preachy." She just sings from her heart and shares her thoughts, feelings and experiences.

At first listen, their songs may be considered more "pop" than anything else, but there is a lot more going on than just the normal verse/chorus/verse/chorus song structure. Despite the "hooks," it's the earthy guitars, funky bass lines, trippy loops and ethereal effects that seperate these songs from others. Whether getting lost in the rich layers of sound, or contemplating the philosophical lyrics, after listening to the 8 songs on The Spirit Theory's "The Calmness in the Riot," you'll feel inspired and refreshed... and you'll be singing them long after you've heard them!
- CD Baby