Spiritual Rez brings its reggae-fusion Revelry Room

Not long into writing and recording their fourth album, "Setting in the West," reggae-fusion musicians Spiritual Rez knew they were creating something special.

Under the guidance of producer Kenny Carkeet, a founding member of alt-rock band Awolnation, Spiritual Rez fused their high-energy reggae sound with an edgy pop polish.

For a decade, these six men have relentlessly toured the country to share their music that is rooted in rock, reggae and funk. They described their act on Facebook as "the craziest reggae dance party you'll ever be a part of."

See for yourself tonight, Aug. 3, when their reggae/funk dance experience takes the stage at Revelry Room.

Spiritual Rez

Spiritual Rez has shared the stage with George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, Steel Pulse, Jimmy Buffet and numerous other acts.

"Setting in the West," which was released last October, is a 10-track album of story songs, love songs and songs featuring a common message from past Spiritual Rez records: Follow your dreams and never give up.

"Our last record was very politically and socially driven," says frontman Toft Willingham of "Apocalypse Whenever," which reached No. 2 on the Relix/Jambands Radio Chart and No. 8 on iTunes Reggae Chart.

"For this album, we wanted to break away from that and write about love and things that resonate with the masses. We wanted to tell stories and encourage people.

"Determination has always carried us as a band. After college, we were homeless for four years, just touring nonstop, committed to never giving up."

In addition to Willingham, the band includes Jesse Shaternick, bass; Ian "Meat" Miller, drums; Mohamed Araki, keys; Quinn Carson, trombone; and and Julian Dessler, trumpet.

When Spiritual Rez launches into "Digital Age" at Revelry Room, it's their message to embrace change, not fear it.

"It embodies our desire to progress and never stop striving to make the best art possible," says Willingham.

"To have made it this far doing what we love and not see an end in sight is a testament to hard work, but above all, it's a blessing."