by Joslyn LaynePachora is a group that formed in the late '90s, and melds Middle Eastern and Eastern European musical influences into melodic and multi-rhythmic instrumental music. The band consists of an excellent and tasteful group of smart players: percussionist Jim Black, clarinetist Chris Speed, guitarist Brad Shepik (who also plays saz), and bassist Skuli Sverrisson. Pachora performs hybrid originals and new arrangements on traditional songs. In addition to performing in Pachora, the musicians are also members of many other groups -- most frequently jazz -- including Dave Douglas' Tiny Bell Trio, Tim Berne's Bloodcount, and more. Pachora toured after the 1997 release of their first, self-titled album on New York's Knitting Factory label. 1999 and the beginning of 2000 would bring in their next two albums, Unn and Ast, on the same label.