New Release With the release of their new self titled album Asheville, NC Reggae collective Chalwa takes a step to further the boundaries of the genre. A fusion of music blending high energy improvisation with roots, rock and reggae the release reaches deep into Jamaica to build an identity. Along with a fresh batch of material the release features an intimate look into the actual Jamaica experience offering field recordings made during the band's frequent trips to the island. The album leaves the listener captivated by the hooks and melodies and transported by the dreamy interludes to a Jamaica that feels very present yet distant at the same time. Biography Chalwa has been located in the western North Carolina mountain town of Asheville since 2006.  Their sound is heavily influenced by roots they have established through years of family ties to Jamaica.  Despite cultural boundaries, Chalwa finds a way to create music that is both progressive and steeped in tradition.  Perhaps this is what links Chalwa so closely to the spirit of reggae music in Jamaica; it is the comfort of and understanding of self that allows one to  transcend  sufferation and stereotypes and create something truly original and powerful. Chalwa brings to the stage"a fusion of sounds all wrapped up in a roots reggae beat that will make all ages dance and have a truly positive experience (Black Mountain News)."  As we move forward in 2009 Chalwa is coming off a year in which they performed well over 100 shows throughout the United States and Jamaica along side artists such as Culture, Midnite, Steel Pulse, Bambu Station, Michael Franti, Pato Banton, Groundation, Soldiers of Jah Army, Niyo Rah, Ras Alan, Mickey Mills, Jah Lightning and Thunder, Dubconscious, the Overtakers, and more.