Kikimora

Then came the smooth, ethereal jazz improv of Kikimora; another exceptional band, with front-woman vocalist Hayley Anne Lynch treating the audience with distinct urban-pulsed style of vocal. The fine and not so calculated' blend of funk-slap rhythmic bass infusion with electric keyboard was sublime throughout the set...The special icing on this cake was drummer Eric Boseman's handy work on the kit. (As some of you may know, Boseman has been known take a mere snare, hi-hat and a cymbal, and make you witness full on rhythm parade). On this occasion, he showed us chops to the 10th power with a full kit, which is especially awesome, when you consider he was just 'filling in' for the band. - The Rift Magazine

KIKIMORA

Hailing from a culturally diverse city that straddles the United States and Mexico, Kikimora has evolved into a prolific musical creation that transcends genres and blends intense emotions into complex, ephemeral journeys.

The four-piece band based in El Paso, TX, can shift effortlessly from brilliant jazz melodies to firmly signposted chord changes and key sifts. The subtle solos and the passionate crescendos are created in equal parts by Haley Lynch's shrewd lyrics and soulful vocals along with the improvisational instincts of keyboardist Leo Bennato. The band also boasts the pin-sharp bass lines of veteran musician Jericho and the big sound of drummer Albert Braun.

Whether they are hugging the middle register of Lynch's jazz-influenced guitar or resolving into blues and funk rhythms, Kikimora lives up to their namesake, which is a playful or mischievous spirit.

The band - which formed after a chance encounter between Bennato and Lynch in 2015 - has recently completed their first full-length studio record titled "Laika." The new record stays true to the band's original incarnation, giving audiences an opportunity to roam between romantic ballads or poly-rhythmic meditations on neo-funk.

The band continues to hone its skills as a live act, where the improvisational instincts are clearly visible on stage. A band that continues to evolve and continues to carve their own path as musicians and friends.

- Robert Holguin - Robert Holguin