Rhythm Culture,has been playing the Pacific Northwest music and festival scene for just over 3 years. Still evolving as all groups must, Rhythm Culture has placed its focus on developing its own signature sound driven by a reggae beat. Combining their individual influences of the Caribbean and the Americas, and using a roots reggae foundation, the band infuses blues and jazz into their brand of Reggae music, guaranteed to get even the most reluctant of dancers out of their chairs.

The band is based in Portland, Oregon and led by Byron Mercurius, of Guyana, South America. Rhythm Culture, featuring guitar, bass, keyboards, drums and trumpet, consists of five core musicians who represent a variety of age groups and different backgrounds. On the larger festival stages we invite one or more of our talented guest musicians to play with the group. "Keep the Wild Free," Rhythm Culture's first release features several of these musicians. Recently signed by Harvest Moon Records, a new local Indie label, Rhythm Culture has been busy in the studio recording their first two releases. "Keep the Wild Free," is a compilation of rhythms and different styles, each song with its own unique groove. "Reggae Karaoke Party," a children's CD, is scheduled for release Spring 2003.

Rhythm Culture also offers educational programs to the schools. Concerts and workshops are designed to teach young people about culture and music. "Exploring Rhythms of the Caribbean Region," is a musical tour, where students learn about the various types of music and rhythms that are part of the region. Specifically they visit the music of Trinidad/Tobago, Cuba and Jamaica. Band members acting as tour leaders describe various rhythms including Bosa Nova, Samba, Rock Steady, Socca, Rap, Folk, Reggae and Calypso and play songs representative of those rhythms. Students also take a trip to "Carnival," an event celebrated throughout the region. In addition, various musical concepts are touched upon including the emotional feelings associated with major and minor chords in music along with interactive Call and Response activities.

The true focus of all music is to uplift people. Rhythm Culture music appeals to people of all ages and backgrounds because it passes a positive, upbeat message. The music is designed to move the mind as well as the body, a soul freeing, cultural experience. It is written for everyone. The band invites the listener to free the mind and allow themselves to get swept up in a rhythmic experience that Rhythm Culture hopes will feed their soul. So bring your dancing shoes and join the Reggae Party.