Alset Alokin

Alset Alokin are self-described “alternative funk goodness,” embodied in a three piece band from three different towns. Skeptics of separate origins fear not, Alset Alokin keep busy with lots of shows in lots of places–both on and off of Long Island–all while presenting a sound that is as cohesive as a band that has been jamming in the same town since day one. Their “Super Moon Sessions” up on Pure Volume offer up three tracks (I'm noticing a favorite number here?) of varying tempos, rhythms and moods, while retaining a very firmly planted foot in the sonic character of funk, with just a bit of sheen mixed in, giving them the “progressive” hyphenate add-on and throwing new listeners a touch of modern–not showing the group to reside only in a genre susceptible to chains of chronological bias. The instrumental, “40 Something and Change,” is a nice surprise and showcases the prog side of things well. - Kira Grunenberg

KeVinn Rinn, a member of two bands Alset Alokin and Wait & Shackle, frequently tours outside of his home scene on Long Island to other states. Rather than feeling estranged from cities he has never been to, he notes the willingness of people to participate. “Every city, every show, every person is different… For the most part, in my experience, people are usually willing to help out in any way they can. Whether it is finding a spot for the band to sleep, paying out of their own pockets to give gas money, or just buying us a beer, so many people do more then they have to, to support us and that is such a gratifying sensation.”

This is the type of community that is essential to forming bonds and creating cultural shifts in thought and interaction. We see these shifts at Burning Man, at Slab City, and a number of other festivals and communities throughout the country. They’re taking the power away from corporations and Hollywood stigmas and bringing a focus back to fostering relationships between artist, audience, and the world around them. And it all starts at a grassroots level, with each of us in our hometown, getting involved and participating where we can.

“All in all, you got to give the same respect and conviviality that you receive to everyone around you. If you have a room full of people willing to listen, and help each other achieve their goals, you have a community,” a final sentiment from Rinn. What my friend told me over a bottle of Vodka in a field was wrong. I didn’t go away and lose anyone, I came back and found a family. And I encourage everyone reading this to get out there and find a show in their town, and explore what can happen when creative minds get together. - Brytnee Laurette