This musical chemistry comes from the bond forged by frontman Kalu James, who emigrated from Nigeria at age 18 to claim Austin as his new home, and guitarist Jonathan “JT” Holt, who adds a touch of American soul to Kalu’s West African heritage. Kalu and JT connected through the hustle of the Austin music scene, writing songs together and discovering immediately that the talents of each complemented the other. Percussionist John Speice, who had a longstanding Austin connection with JT also had spent his life mastering rhythms Kalu had grown up with, making him a perfect fit for the group. The musicians honed their vision during a weekly residency at Austin’s Continental Club Gallery that was initially intended to last only a month but eventually stretched to three years.

Time Undone, Kalu & the Electric Joint’s debut album, with producer Brett Orrison (The Black Angels, Widespread Panic) is sonically woven with the low end theory of hip hop, yet it has the drive of heavy-hitting rock n roll & futuristic psychedelia resulting to a boogie-down blend of ethno-funk & neo-soul. Features guest appearances by members of Widespread Panic, The War on Drugs, The Sword and Grupo Fantasma.

[Programming descriptions are generated by participants and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of SXSW.]