“Abud: A Bard” is the tangible manifestation of composer and multi-instrumentalist James Abud’s fantastical notions and musical research. This bombastic and exciting One-Man show is founded on original acoustic works grounded in American folk, jazz, and theater music. Delicate wordplay woven into roaring melodies soars over any combination of stomping feet percussion and acoustic guitar, banjo, or ukulele. It features Abud's earthy virtuosity, chummy pathos, and fluffy beard. 

In addition to the music, “Abud: A Bard” is filled with hilarious and sentimental tales of an existence dedicated to music, family, and adventure; being on the road, in the classroom, and the glamorous life of a lifelong performer.

The project has so far yielded two albums: 2014's Fluff, and the 2016 EP Making a Friend from Scratch 
 
James Abud is a Detroit native and Chicago transplant whose life has been dedicated to composing, performing, and teaching music. 

"His tales and lyrics abound with playful zaniness and doe-eyed pathos that will make you feel like you've known this performer a thousand lifetimes."

Ram Dass first went to India in 1967. He was still Dr. Richard Alpert, a prominent Harvard psychologist and psychedelic pioneer with Dr. Timothy Leary. He continued his psychedelic research until that fateful Eastern trip in 1967, when he traveled to India. In India, he met his guru, Neem Karoli Baba, affectionately known as Maharajji, who gave Ram Dass his name, which means “servant of God.” Everything changed then – his intense dharmic life started, and he became a pivotal influence on a culture that has reverberated with the words “Be Here Now” ever since. Ram Dass’ spirit has been a guiding light for three generations, carrying along millions on the journey, helping to free them from their bonds as he works through his own.

Doing Shows in Michigan/Detroit currently

InsightLA offers the highest quality training in mindfulness practices available in the Greater Los Angeles area.  For 16 years, we have offered classes, retreats, and special events, and an open and welcoming community of practitioners.  Though our work is rooted in ancient traditions, we offer classes in both  secular mindfulness as well as the Buddhist Insight Tradition.  All of our efforts are dedicated toward our mission of calming minds, opening hearts, and changing the world.

Guitarchitect  🎸👷‍♂️

(producer for @paydanth)

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