Eclectic, original, moving music based on the traditions of the Mediterrean, Africa, the Carribean, Latin America, Eastern and Western Europe and more. Start with the rhythms, scales and instrumentation of these exotic lands, filter through a Rock 'n' Roll feel and intensity, add in extended improvisations in the style of jam bands like the Grateful Dead - and you have the music of Jamundo!

The name comes from the two most important elements of their music - "Jam" (for improvisation) and "mundo" (for world music).

The featured instrumentation includes oud, violin, guitar, bazuki, melodica, kalimba, flutes, charango, cumbus, and many other stringed instruments. Percussion includes djembe, dumbek, cajon, bongos, riq, tambourine, bodrain, frame drums, birembau, shakers and many more. And that's a two man band!

Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, the band consists of Dennis Shearin and Kirk Lohry. These two have played music for many years in numerous bands and share a love of free improvisation and the music of the world. Like many of the great jam bands, they've achieved a level of "musical telepathy" that is amazing!

Unlike many World Music bands, they have no interest in simply copying the traditions of the world or passing themselves off as "authentic." They prefer to blend a wide range of world music with the music, rhythms, traditions and experiences that have been part of their lives. That, after all, is the only way musicians can truly be authentic.

They also have little interest in providing a dry educational experience. This music is meant to be felt - not talked about! Their enjoyment of the music is obvious and infectious. Their shows are also highly interactive - they frequently wander off the stage to interact with the audience or dancers.

To date, Jamundo has released one CD - Orientation - which features nearly an hour of instrumental music, ranging from Middle Eastern improvisations to latin flavored multi-tracked songs. The featured instruments include oud, violin, bazuki, flutes and melodica. The CD is available online at CD Baby or anywhere they play.

And speaking of interaction, if social networking is more your speed, the Jamundo Myspace page has recently been resurrected. You can also keep informed about upcoming events by signing up for the Jamundo email newsletter.