The Alchemystics

Fueled by their passion to explore beyond the edges of traditional musical boundaries and their diverse ethnic and musical backgrounds, the Alchemystics blend reggae, politically infused hip-hop, gritty soul, hard-driving rock, and pulsing Jamaican, Cuban and Trinidadian rhythms into an utterly unique and distinctively original new sound. The result is modern-day roots music with global appeal – an alchemy of ancient musical traditions; intricate, intelligent wordplay; elementally raw soul; irresistible hooks; deep, driving rhythms; and old-school vocal harmonies – fired by the Alchemystics’ unique blend of intensity, passion, and sheer artistic chemistry into a powerful, contemporary, and unmistakable sound.

Formed by producers and rhythmic earth shakers Demse Zullo (drums & percussion) & Garrett Sawyer (bass) in early 2003, the Alchemystics under their musical direction have grown into an eclectic lineup of talented musicians. They combine the inspired, masterful vocals of Force, the Afro-Caribbean infused percussion of Matthew King and Freddy McCondichie, booming bass of Chris Ball, and the cosmic keyboards of John Corda. Together, The Alchemystics have catalyzed into an original, unstoppable musical force. Their high-energy, fiercely danceable live shows have gained the band a passionately loyal multi-cultural, multi-generational following throughout New England and beyond.

The Alchemystics have shared stages with a global array of music luminaries such as Stephen Marley, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Clipse, Damian Marley, The Abyssinians, Sister Carol, The Coup, Inner circle, Busta Rhymes, Yellow Man, Burning Spear, Gil Scott Heron, Culture, Steel Pulse, Angelique Kidjo, Mighty Sparrow, The Brazilian Girls, Israel Vibrations, The English Beat, Midnite, King Sunny Ade and Taj Mahal among many others.

The Alchemystics firmly embrace the philosophy that music and art are tools for propelling social change in our communities, and that the future of music and the planet necessitates bringing people of diverse backgrounds together to create conscious community. Individually and collectively, the members of the Alchemystics prioritize giving back to their local community, working closely with local youth groups and lending their musical talents when called upon. In November 2017, members of the Alchemystics performed a benefit for hurricane relief for Puerto Rico, called Puerto Rico Se Levanta! With other local musicians, the Alchemystics helped raise thousands of dollars to help Puerto Ricans in need. Individually and as a group, Alchemystics members regularly guest lecture, teach, and perform at schools and colleges throughout the Northeast.

The Alchemystics have made their mark on the festival circuit, performing at major music events throughout the Northeast like Ziontific, StrangeCreek, Wormtown, Wild Woods, MOVE!, Meraki Roots Music Festival, Green River Festival, Matrix, Bella Terra, Cosmic Alignment, and Open Road Music and Arts, just to name a few.

In May 2011 The Alchemystics released their fourth album Spread Hope, a 17-track studio album that follows up their E.P. and a full length live recording in 2008. They continue to play throughout the Northeast year-round.