I Yahn I Arkestra

I Yahn I Arkestra is a Philadelphia-based reggae and dub collective formed in 1997. Fusing roots reggae, dub, jazz, and global rhythms, the band is known for their spiritual, genre-blurring sound. Led by founders Derek “Ras Jah D” Myers and Kasea “Kaseaopia” Myers, the group has shared stages with Damian Marley, Lee “Scratch” Perry, and The Wailers. Their dynamic live shows and message-driven music continue to inspire a global audience.

I Yahn I Arkestra – Press Bio

I Yahn I Arkestra is a Philadelphia-based collective rooted in Rastafari, known for their transcendent fusion of conscious reggae, dub, and global sound. Blending spiritual depth with sonic exploration, the Arkestra creates music that speaks to love, unity, and revolution while honoring the earth and ancestral wisdom.

For over two decades, core members Ras Jah D and Kaseaopia have written and performed original compositions that bridge cultures and consciousness. Backed by an all-star ensemble of musicians—including Chuck Treece, B Davis, Josh Freshy, HR (Bad Brains), and Timi Tanzania—the group delivers a dynamic, improvisational live experience that is both free-flowing and deeply intentional.

I Yahn I Arkestra has built a loyal following in Philadelphia and beyond, touring across the United States, Caribbean, and Middle East. They have shared stages with renowned artists such as Matisyahu, Lee “Scratch” Perry, Black Uhuru, and Damian Marley, and have collaborated with notable figures including master percussionist Doc Gibbs, guitarist Teddy Royal, and Indian percussionist Radha Gopinath Marrinelli.

More than a band, the “Arkestra” concept—an idea inspired by visionary bandleader Sun Ra—embodies music as a vehicle for higher consciousness and collective elevation.

Their discography includes Love Mission (2007), From Shakamaxon (2011), and Ras Asana (2018), along with dub reinterpretations and collaborative projects. Their sound continues to evolve, merging traditional reggae roots with psychedelic improvisation and world instrumentation, helping define the emerging “yoga dub” movement.

As The Beat Magazine noted, their music is “flowing and jammy…with spiritual lyrics and layered drums that evoke the feel of a classic Rastafarian groundation.”