Psych-soul, avant-garde, and completely Austin, Golden Dawn Arkestra keeps up with the motto, “Keep Austin Weird.” Influences of Sun Ra are in their sound and appearance, as they dress in outrageous, larger-than-life costumes and play music that crashes like thunderous waves of sound. With new track ‘Disko’ from recent album Stargazer, Golden Dawn Arkestra captures their identity in a funk groove sure to shake some hips.
The band was formed by band leader, Topaz McGarrigle, also known as, Zapot Mgwana (who, interestingly, was told at a young age to be the son of Sun Ra), and they’ve taken on an identity of an out of this world band, one filled with a brass and horn section, provocative drums, a mesmerizing dance troupe and costumes of colorful regal robes that dazzle onlookers as much as their music does.
‘Disko’ in particular delivers GDA’s distinct sound with fast paced funk, psych guitars, booming brass and a contagious groove. A gradual build up of horns leads into harrowing key playing, and the track is all the while kept moving with percussion that deliver fast punches. All of these elements of sound then mesh perfectly with the deep whispering vocals paired with the echoing funk that dares you to dance.
Golden Dawn Arkestra’s cosmic sound is something you don’t just listen to, it’s an experience, one that draws you in and doesn’t let go. Check out their song below and be sure to catch them this summer on June 18 at the Solstice Festival along with an incredible Austin-focused lineup!
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Andrew Conroy