Since forming in 1988, Tempest has delivered a globally-renowned hybrid of high-energy folk rock fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, & other world music elements. The last 19 years have seen the San Francisco Bay Areabased act release twelve critically acclaimed CDs & play more than 2000 gigs. It’s also enjoyed an evolving line-up that’s enabled its musicianship & creativity to rise with each new member-something highlighted by the group’s current roster. Hailing from Oslo, Norway, founding member & lead singer/electric mandolinist Lief Sorbye is recognized as a driving force in the modern folk-rock movement. Fiddler Michael Mullen, a favorite with the fans, is the original fiddler for the group. Bassist Damien Gonzalez, a native Californian, is also an accomplished drummer & didgeridoo player who may occasionally breathe fire. Native of Devon, England, & a former member of the UK’s folk-rock band Equation, guitarist James Crocker combines a deep-rooted British folk sensibility with a lifelong rock experience. Cuban-born drummer Adolfo Lazo, an original Tempest member, colors the band’s sound with inventive percussion.