Malai Llama is a Colorado-based experimental rock quartet who fearlessly creates an atmosphere of triumph and inspiration every time they hit the stage. Improvisation manifests in a variety of forms during a Malai Llama set, as the band weaves together the benevolent jam band spirit, the technical rigor of prog-rock, and modern jazz performance.
The band was officially formed in 2013 by longtime friends and bandmates Chris Cornwall (drums) and Steven Govanlu (keys, guitar, lead vocal) before they connected with Matt Flaherty (guitar, vocal) and John DeSousa (bass, trombone, vocal). The result was a palpable collective energy and a long-term vision for the future.
The Malai Llama experience is marked by both freeform composition and compelling original lyrics and songwriting. They wield added strength through their ability to select potent covers like “Carry the Weight” “Foxy Lady” or “Happy Hour Hero.” By keeping everyone involved in the show, both old and new Malai Llama fans develop a community on the dancefloor. They aim to continue foster a burgeoning community around their music that embraces all artists of the visual and performance variety.
In 2016, Malai Llama released their first full length LP ‘Out to Graze.’ The album was truly the product of the merging of each member’s musical stories and the cultivation of a sound all their own. Inspired by artists like Karl Denson’s Tiny Universe and Medeski Martin & Wood, each track features dynamic song structures and lyricism meant to galvanize crowds to embody exploration and confidence. ‘Out to Graze’ was simply the springboard for the band’s songwriting, as they continue writing vigorously between gigs.
Malai Llama has taken the stage with members of String Cheese Incident, Toubab Krewe, Blues Traveler, Lotus and many other legendary acts. Recent killer performances include The Gothic Theater for a sold out show alongside the legendary George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic, and a co-headlining billing for Halloween with The Big Wu. After rapidly establishing a strong foothold in Colorado, the band will be hitting stages across the Southwest and beyond in 2017.
May 12, 2017
Doors: 8:30 pm | Show: 9:00 pm
Tickets on sale 10 a.m. Friday, March 24, 2017 at foxtheatre.com.
