Hands Off Cuba

Hands Off Cuba

Hands Off Cuba is an experimental music collective originating from Nashville, Tennessee. The project began in 2005 as a bedroom electronica endeavor by Scott Martin and Ryan Norris. Following the release of CoLab, a collaborative EP with the established band Lambchop, Hands Off Cuba evolved significantly.

Evolution and Expanding Lineup

After CoLab, both Martin and Norris became integral members of Lambchop. This connection led to Hands Off Cuba expanding its roster to include Lambchop stalwarts William Tyler and Jonathan Marx. The ensemble's lineup has continued to grow with the recent additions of Adam Bednarik and Matt Glassmeyer. This diverse instrumentation spans digital samplers, keyboards, guitars, woodwinds, and custom-built percussion, contributing to the band's unique sonic palette.

Musical Influences and Sound

Hands Off Cuba draws inspiration from a broad spectrum of musical styles. The group is equally influenced by the driving rhythms of German progressive rock, the innovative sonic explorations of Miles Davis and other electric jazz pioneers, and the groundbreaking compositions of the postwar avant-garde. The result is a concentrated fusion of diverse ideas and individual musical personalities, creating a sound that is both expansive and tightly composed.

Debut Album: From Arrival to Survival

For their first full-length release, From Arrival to Survival, Hands Off Cuba invited contributions from a circle of friends and collaborators, including Ben and Amy Marcantel, Cortney Tidwell, and Luke Schneider, all of whom have prior working relationships with the band members. Martin and Norris helmed the recording and mixing process, working both independently and collaboratively. This approach resulted in a wide range of sounds, styles, and moods that coalesce into a cohesive listening experience. The album seamlessly transitions between intricate electronic passages, robust rhythmic sections, sharp melodic lines, and immersive ambient textures.