Left to Right:
Cori Somers
Violin, bass, vocal
Ian Gorman
Mandolin, bass, banjo, guitar, accordion, vocal
Mike Shimmin
Drums, percussion, bouzouki, vocal
Jay Gavan
Guitar, bass, accordion, vocal
Ira CohenGuitar, banjo, vocal
Rachel Flanigan • Clarinet, vocal


The Red Sea Pedestrians are a one-of-a-kind, full-blown, instrument-swapping fusion between tradition and the here- and-now. We're talkin' high-energy world-beat grooves, hypnotic laments from the earth, songs of celebration and wonder: a warped and beautiful blend of Klezmer, Greek, Gypsy, Celtic, Jazz and American Roots, all filtered through the band's original vision.  

RSP are a melting pot of six distinct multi-instrumentalists and singer/songwriters, almost a self-contained variety show. Their sound is first defined by the sweet interplay between clarinet and violin and is colored by three fine singers and multi-instrumentalists, as well as masterful percussion. The band members are also students of the great records of the sixties (notably late Beatles) and hence they have created a realm that is both comforting and challenging to the listener. Multi-layered lyrics, rich harmonies, and masterful playing complete the story.

Their captivating live shows and ambitious CDs have been getting rave reviews and building an energetic buzz throughout Michigan's independent acoustic music community, including the garnering of nominations for two WYCE Jammie Awards: Best World Beat Album & Best Debut World Beat Artist.