Deep Groove Encyclopedia

Lemuria

Click below for a Lemuria sample:

Best known for the rare groover "Hunk Of Heaven," Lemuria are Hawaiian soul legends. The group, which took its name from the ancient civilization that existed around the time of Atlantis, was organized by Kirk Thompson (bass, keyboards, vibes, piano), a veteran of local group Kalapana. Upon forming Lemuria, Thompson recruited the state's best performers, settling on a lineup of Gary Sprewel (bass), Kit Ebersbach (clavinet, synthesizer, piano), John Rapoza (guitar), Bert de Jesus (drums), and Master Henry Gibson (percussion). Gibson had previously contributed his prodigious talents to recordings by Curtis Mayfield, Rotary Connection, and Donny Hathaway, among others. The vocals were handled by Stacie Johnson, Azure McCall, Merri Lake, and Star Williams, who were collectively known as The Ladies Of Lemuria.

Behind Thompson's leadership, Lemuria forged a sound that represented fusion in its highest form. Combining equal parts George Benson, Roy Ayers, Stevie Wonder and west coast Fantasy feel, they released their self-titled album on their own label. The record stands as a testament to Thompson's skills as a producer and songwriter, as well as the sheer talent of the band. Think of a more danceable version of Seawind, another Hawaiian ensemble, and you get an idea of the sound.

Local distribution meant that few were aware of the band until "Hunk Of Heaven" began appearing on compilations. From there, interest in the album swelled and you can expect to pay a pretty penny for a vinyl copy. Due to the outside projects of the members, they only recorded one album.

Today, Thompson owns and operates runs the Spectrum Recording Studio.

Lemuria's Deepest Groove

Lemuria (Heaven, 1978)
This album has earned its reputation as a great bit of jazzy spiritual soul. In addition to "Hunk Of Heaven," the notable cuts are the disco-kissed "Mystery of Love" and "Somebody's Talkin'." Fans of Stevie Wonder will definitely appreciate "The Making Of You," and the spiritual message is carried with "Dreams" and "Don't Say There Ain't No Heaven." This great LP ends with the instrumental "Who Do You Love," the aural equivalent of watching a sunset on a beach.