Oakland-based Temple of Roots is an experimental dub outfit whose members came together in the hope of creating original and uplifting music that reflects society’s changing consciousness. Vocalist Josh “the Scribe” Millican and multi-instrumentalist/programmer Manny “Manteka” San Gabriel began collaborating in 2004 as founding members of the staunchly political hip-hop trio Dead Sea Scribes (www.myspace.com/deadseascribes). They were joined in mid-2006 by singer Linda “Stingah” Hurshman, whose smooth-to-scorching vocal range is matched by an intense stage persona. While extremely inspired and motivated by the sounds and spirituality of reggae music, Temple of Roots remains truly unique by incorporating elements of new-school hip-hop and delivering their messages with an unmistakable California swagger.