Bluegrass purists might shake a finger at Tall Tall Trees when lead singer Mike Savino plugs his banjo into a series of stomp boxes and cranks up his amplifier, but, for fans, the result is strikingly fresh and original. The band, which also features guitarist Kyle Sanna, percussionist Mathias Kunzli and bassist Benjamin Campbell, has been touring in support of the self-titled debut album they released in 2009.

Using a similar formula to fellow New Yorkers Vampire Weekend and Dirty Projectors, Tall Tall Trees mix American folk and rock with elements of Brazilian and African music, providing rhythmic support to Savino's melodically and lyrically twisted tunes. Live, the band is energetic and masterful, reflecting years spent collaborating with a diverse roster of artists including Moby, Yo Yo Ma, and Vieux Farka Toure. Their friendship and musical chemistry allows them the opportunity to re-invent songs night after night.

"We're all ex-jazz heads and world music junkies," says Savino. "I became obsessed with music from Pernambuco, Brazil and that has become a big part of my musical landscape." What exactly does that mean for the listener? Two words: triangle solo.