Based in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, The Hypsys are an eclectic trio of highly skilled and driven musicians. Formed in early 2007 from members of other local bands, they immediately began writing music they refer to as “progressive-jazz-rock-fusion-soul-funk.” Since then, they have garnered a reputation for being a very original act, pushing the boundaries of composition and experimental improvisation. Guitarist/vocalist Bo Hembree, along with bassist/vocalist David Ray, majored in Jazz Studies at the University of Alabama. This influence shows in their originals and in some of their versions of jazz standards that can be heard at their shows. Drummer Paul Oliver was also a music major at the University of Alabama, where he studied extensively in classical and jazz percussion. This intense study adds to the intricacy and technicality of live shows performed by The Hypsys. All three members graduated in December of 2009 and are now looking to further expand their careers in music. The Hypsys have played shows throughout the southeast, including opening for Col. Bruce Hampton and the Quark Alliance multiple times, along with Grant Green Jr., Tuscapalooza Festival, ArtWalk Festival (Birmingham), EarthFest (UA Campus/Tuscaloosa) and benefits for the WVUA radio station. In the fall of 2008, The Hypsys released their self-titled debut album, which is now available at iTunes, Oz Music (Tuscaloosa, AL), CDBaby, Amazon, Rhapsody, Ruckus and LaLa. They are currently finishing up material for their second full length studio album, to be released in 2010.