Meet The Far East

Reggae R&B and Soul is the language spoken by this terrific band. Meet The Far East. This NYC based group has assembled to bring you the most smooth of grooves and the best of times. Their latest album “New York Is For Lovers” is out right now. Give it a listen as we chat with lead vocalist Maddie in our latest interview.

A Self-portrait by, Maddie of The Far East

Would You Rather

have the power to make things you touch turn invisible or shrink?

Shrink. I would lose too many things. Can I make them big again?

Some questions with Maddie of The Far East

How did The Far East come together?

We came together by fate. We met via a community board and bonded over a love of reggae, r&b, and soul music of the 60s, and 70s.

If your music was a sandwich, what would it be? Why?

It would have to be a bodega sandwich because we're from NYC. Probably some kind of egg and cheese with extra spicy tamarind pepper sauce.

Your sound is very unique and shows a lot of individuality, with inspiration from foundation Jamaican rhythm, how you find and develop your sound?

We've been inspired by our surroundings and by the New Yorkers that brought Caribbean music to New York. We learned about reggae music in the dances here in New York and we developed our sound by listening closely and learning from elders. I try to sing songs from my heart and take rhythm seriously. I see myself as a student to rhythm, a life-long devotion.

If you could change one thing about the music industry, what would it be?

I would like to see the music industry changed in the same way that I'd like to see all industries changed. I'd like to see industry and capitalism fall in favor of collectivism, and autonomy. I believe the music industry is plagued with the same systems of domination that all industry is poisoned by. As long as the music is commodified under capitalism, I think we should focus on liberating those on the margins, the most oppressed.

On a scale of one to ten, what is your name?

Ha! Hello, my name is Seven.

What was the creative drive behind your upcoming release "New York Is For Lovers"?

A deep love of the glamour and sparkle of NY disco against the backdrop of austerity and urban life. The beauty of diversity and engaging with cross-cultural collaboration. We wanted to make a tribute to the producers we admire like Wackies and Dennis Bovell. We live in New York City, and times are rough, but we are still finding love, music, and beauty in our collective space.

What are your top five favorite animals?

1. Jaguar 2. Great blue heron
3. Giant tortoise
4. Rabbit
5. Tiger

Any final comments? (This is your electronic soapbox for one last answer.)

Our LP sold out in less than a week and we are so grateful to everyone who made that happen. Our digital album is still available here.

Thank you for the space and time here!

The Far East