User:Brightersideofsol/sandbox

About the Band

Brighter Side of Sol is a five-piece fusion global funk band based in Honolulu, Hawaii. Initially formed in 2018, Shree Sadagopan brought together a diverse set of local musicians around a vision of positive messaging and novel music. Inspired by Pharrell Williams, Jimmy Hendrix, Will I Am, Foo Fighters and Sting, the unique sound and entertainment fuses music styles from America, India and Malaysia. With the rhythmic beats of the Indian Dhol drum, layered on groovy trombone and psychedelic guitars, a three part harmony and an iconic bass, fans are left humming the tunes long after the shows are over.

Band Members

SHREE SADAGOPAN - LEAD GUITAR AND VOCALS Shree is a versatile and innovative guitarist who fuses the musical traditions of his homeland, Malaysia, with the diverse influences of his adopted home, Hawai’i. Shree founded the band and is an integral part of the band’s sound, adding his signature psychedelic guitar style that involves picking, strumming, and bowing the strings. He also leads the band’s songwriting and production. After performing at various venues and festivals across the US, Asia, and Europe, and sharing the stage with renowned artists, Shree focused on his musical vision through the band, showcasing original songs as well as covers, and creating a unique sound that appeals to a wide audience.

JAMES HARMON - BASS GUITAR AND VOCALS James Harmon is a bass guitar player and vocalist who has a passion for music and a diverse range of influences. Born in Los Angeles, he grew up in Kansas and Hawaii, where he was exposed to different cultures and musical styles. He started playing music at sixteen, inspired by his friends and his musical idols. His musical exploration is fueled by the creative process of writing and improvising with other musicians, as well as the emotional and mental benefits of playing music. When he is not making music, James Harmon enjoys staying active and healthy, with surfing, cycling, fly fishing, traveling, snowboarding, cooking, and painting. Needless to say, he express his creativity in many different ways.

BRANDON HUDSON - TROMBONE AND KEYBOARD Brandon is a talented trombone player who has a passion for music and a diverse range of influences. Born in New York City and raised in Portland, Oregon, Brandon started playing piano at 9, trumpet at 11, and trombone at 15. He has resided in Oahu, Hawaii since 2008. Brandon has played and recorded with some of the most prominent bands and artists in the genres of jazz, funk, soul, hip hop, classical, reggae, ska, dub, and mantra based music. Brandon started playing music for fun, then as a way of emotional release, and eventually as a livelihood. He is driven by his passion for music and his desire to make people smile and lift their spirits.

JACK TAWIL - DRUMMER Laying down the heartbeat and driving pulse of the band, Jack began his formal drumming career at age seven after witnessing a live performance of big-band drumming legends. Soon afterwards, he was immersed in the varied styles of jazz, fusion, rock and session drummers. Solidifying his reputation performing with many local bands and tours with both local and global groups, Jack transitioned into doing TV and movie soundtrack work for the likes of Comedy Central, Amazon Studios, Netflix, and a variety of commercial and documentary programs. Realizing the special energy and connection that can only come with live performance, Jack returned to stage life with Brighter Side of Sol and has been pushing the songs forward with the powerful percussion.

DAVE GUPTA - DHOL DRUMMER / PERCUSSIONIST Dave is a versatile musician who plays the dhol drum, a two-sided barrel shaped wood drum that produces intricate rhythms. With roots in India, Dave started his musical journey in middle school at the age of twelve, after being inspired by a diversity showcase music show with a dhol drummer. Since then, he has honed his skills and expanded his repertoire to include various music synthesizers as well as the electronic digital hand-drum which can emulate tabla and congas, among other global percussion. Dave is energized through collaboration with musicians and looks forward to touring on the world stage. With a passion for all things tech, Dave is also involved in the production and manages the band. He is always eager to learn new skills and challenge himself to grow as an artist.