Born out of the improvisational recording project
mweepo,
Higher Than Why began in late 2003 as a three piece based in
Austin, Texas. Consisting of the formerly untapped rapping
menace-to-the-powers-that-be Josh Logan (Justice) and the
innovative beat making and production collaboration of Zack
Logan and Steve Varner (Dr. Delivery), Higher Than Why was
originally only a recording project with beats, bass lines and
melodies made from computer loop sequencers. Bear vs Shark is
the trio's debut, and the incendiary album is a DIY labor of
love - self-recorded, produced, printed and released.
In August 2004, the group decided to take to the stage. Because
both Steve and Zack have been gigging musicians for years, the
trio chose to use instrumentation to recreate their electronic
album for live shows. With Justice on the mic, Zack on drums,
and Dr. D on bass, they then recruited keyboardist Jake Kithcart.
In terms of content, they are still a socio-political,
world-conscious hiphop band. Major lyrical influences include
Chuck D, De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest. In terms of music
their sound is now an eclectic fusion of hiphop, funk, soul,
jazz and reggae. Their major musical influences include Beastie
Boys, The Beatles, Blackalicious, Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock,
Jimi Hendrix, Frank Zappa, Pong and The Roots.
Higher Than Why maintains a focused mission to promote the
spread of social discussion along with musical innovation. They
regard music not only as entertainment, but also as a powerful
tool for communication and for affecting change. This is evident
in their lyrical message as well as their dedication.