Ashoka

Ashoka (pronounced Uh颅show颅kah) is the creation of singer/songwriter/ multi颅instrumentalist Ashok Warrie r. His unique brand of soulful, intelligent psychedelic rock combines influences as varied as The Beatles, Sou ndgarden, The Police, Nirvana, Radiohead and Led Zeppelin. An adventurous yet highly accessible sound is his trademark. Born in Chicago, Ashok began his music career as a drummer at the age of 15. After years of slugging it out in bands, Ashok turned his attention to guitar and songwriting. He released his first solo effort "The Human Mixture" in 1998 and relocated to New York to pursue artistic excellence. While in New York, Ashok released "American Mantra" and learned the art of recording/producing. After 7 years in the big apple and a revolvin g door of half commited musicians, Ashok decided to return home to Chicago after recording "Driving to No where". "Driving to Nowhere" marks the 3rd disc on which Ashok plays every instrument. The 7 song EP is a strong culmination of all the various influences and methods Ashok has picked up in years of music making. Upon returning to Chicago, Ashok finally found his musical partners in crime in order to bring the Ashoka so und to the stage. Avi Kopernik, Ben Johnson, and Ngandu Kasuku have rounded out what is sure to becom e one of the most exciting bands around.