DeLeon

DeLeon is an indie rock band from Brooklyn, NY, that draws much of its material and inspiration from Sephardi Jewish cultural tradition. The Sephardi Jews inhabited the Iberian Peninsula (i.e., modern-day Spain and Portugal) until the late 15th century, when they were more or less expelled by the Catholic church. Comprised of Dan Saks (vocals, guitar, banjo), Kevin Snider (bass, vocals), Justin Riddle (drums), Amy Crawford (keyboards, vocals), and Andrew Oom (trumpet), the band is named after the 12th century Kabalistic philosopher Moses DeLeon. DeLeon made their live performance debut in April 2007 at the Bowery Ballroom in New York City. They subsequently toured in support of Ozomatli, Mike Gordon (of Phish), and Balkan Beat Box. The band made its full-length album debut in 2008 with DeLeon on the Jewish independent label JDub Records.