The Norms at Pale Fire

From the infinite depths of space, where time and matter are mere mortal constructs, there exists a sound. A sound that emanates from this empty void, its frequencies resonating within all living things, its tonal clarity yielding fruits of enlightenment, penetrating deep into the Third Eyes of the Gods. This sonic signature, this universal ever-growing pulse of luminosity: this is The Norm sound.

Assembled in 2022, the trio of Ben Leonard (bass, keys), Mark Piper (drums, percussion), and Ryan Ratliff (horns) channel their collective cosmic energy as The Norms to produce an infectious and danceable take on what they’ve termed “discodelic space funk.” This retro-futuristic sound draws as much from 70s fusion and reggae as French house and 80s R&B, aiming to get as many corporeal beings moving in unison on the dancefloor as possible.

Their live set material is comprised of originals like the squelchy interstellar funk of “Rioja” and the ten-minute electro-prog of “Twin Moons” with audience favorites such as their trippy dubbed-out take on The Police’s “Walking on the Moon” and a sweaty, riotous workout through The Ohio Players’ “Skin Tight.” Throughout, Leonard and Piper’s elastic, syncopated grooves provide the epicenter for Ratliff to orbit around with cascades of rich and resounding peals from his saxophone.
The trio currently bases their operations out of Staunton, Virginia as their imminent celestial takeover is meticulously plotted and executed.