'Ruby' diving for treasure

Local band creates waves at The Beach

 

By R. S. Hakes, On-Line Forty-Niner

Thursday, October 8, 1998

Wednesday afternoon the local Long Beach-based RubyDiver blessed Cal State Long Beach with funky soulful grooves at a noontime concert in front of a mild gathering of knowledge-seeking scholars.

RubyDiver created a groovy sound with a Latin percussion feel that complemented the warm and sunny environment in which it performed.

The band has achieved a level of professionalism rarely seen in such a young project.

RubyDiver, a six-piece band with an added horn and percussionist, has been together for two short years and has recently released a nine song CD titled "Superremote."

"Superremote" is a funk driven effort intertwined with twangy guitars gently resting atop a bouillabaisse of soul.

Vocalist Miss Paula Helekunihi Duke has a strong melodic voice that demands the listener's attention.

The first step to being successful as an artist is to put serious effort and meaningful thought into the work. RubyDiver has not established a major label contract, but a band member did state that a few labels have expressed interest.

The band members have aspirations and goals parallel to most serious musicians, whom are interested in creating music for a living, said their manager Kurt Hoffman.

"We want to quit our day jobs, travel and play music," Hoffman said.

RubyDiver has created a name for itself in Long Beach and often headlines shows at a slew of local establishments.

The band regularly provides various local acts the opportunity to showcase their talents by performing in the nights opening slots, thus helping to expose lesser-known artists.

RubyDiver is a positive musical experience among Long Beach's crowded music scene. The band produces a meaningful live performance worthy of one's attention.