The Alternative Press

NEWTON, NJ – Described as an “American Hybrid” by lead vocalist of the band 7 Walkers, Papa Mali is enthused to show off the band’s style and talent at The Newton Theatre this coming Saturday.

Mali, who hails from New Orleans, said he likes the enthusiasm New Jersey fans give off, and, enjoys playing in old theaters with rich history like The Newton Theatre.

Overall, Mali, who has been a solo artist most of his life until Bill Kreutzmann, former Grateful Dead drummer asked him to join the 7 Walkers in 2008, said the band gives enthusiasm in return to their audience.

“Our happiness and enthusiasm spreads to the audience,” Mali told The Alternative Press. “We enjoy hanging around together.”

Mali said Kreutzmann’s girlfriend, who is now his wife, gave Kreutzmann one of Mali’s records, and soon Mali was invited to be a part of the 7 Walkers.

Other band members are New Orleans bassist George Porter, Jr., and multi-instrumentalist Matt Hubbard.

Mali describes the style of the band as “New Orleans Meets the Grateful Dead”.

“Bill [Kreutzmann] is one-of-a-kind,” said Mali. “His drumming style has made them [fans] happy, and they want to dance. The Dead takes you on a journey, and takes you back. You take that element and the lyrics of Robert Hunter, and add New Orleans.”

“Although we play a lot of Grateful Dead, it sounds different with the New Orleans influence,” Mali continued.

Mali said the group also plays original songs from their self-titled debut album “7 Walkers”.

Mali also spoke enthusiastically about Porter, who was one of the founding members of The Meters, and Hubbard.

“When you [the audience] walks away from the show you won’t forget it,” said Mali. “He’s the guy that helps tie it all together.”

“We’re really looking forward to the show,” said Mali. “The enthusiasm of being back on the road is obvious. We hope people will come out and enjoy it.”

Mali said in addition to the music, there would be a light show.

“Benjammin is a visionary with the psychedelic light shows, it’s pretty amazing,” said Mali.

Mali said the band is looking forward to playing again in New Jersey, where he said there is a "huge contingent of "Dead Heads", and exploring the Town of Newton.

“We always try to take in the local culture, meet new people, and make new friends,” said Mali. “If fans get to the show early, they may get to meet us. We’re very approachable.”

Tickets for the 7 Walkers are still available on The Newton Theatre website.

Other upcoming shows at The Newton Theatre include: Spyro Gyra on Friday, July 27, Gin Blossoms on Friday, August 17, Kenny Wayne Shepherd on Sunday, August 19, The Outlaws on Saturday, September 15, John Waite on Friday, September 28, Blackbery Smoke on Saturday, October 6, the Blue Oyster Cult on Friday, October 26, Bobby Collins on Saturday, November 3, Marshall Tucker Band on Sunday, December 1, and Lotus Land, on Saturday, January 12, 2013.

Click here for The Newton Theatre website.