Mood Jungle brings three music nerds together to combine jazz, R&B, and rock into an easygoing, soulful blend. Inspired by the fiery sounds of Jimi Hendrix and atmospheric escape of Pink Floyd, the trio creates hypnotic and uplifting jams.

 

Their sound has been described as music for musicians, bringing complex theories to the approachability of pop rock. 

 

Chris Newton (lead guitar and vocals) and Tyler Smith (bass) began playing in bands together at the age of 13. They went through multiple

bands over the years before creating and settling into their groove.

 

They struggled to find a consistent drummer until one fateful day in 2019 when former classmate Hannah Huyoa (drums) heard them at a college event and immediately knew this was the band for her. The trio connected, and after hearing Hannah stand out in her church’s musical ensemble, she was the missing puzzle piece, forming Mood Jungle.​

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In March 2020, Mood Jungle played their debut show at A’roma Roasters Cafe in Santa Rosa. Two weeks later, COVID-19 effectively shut down the US and halted live performances and gatherings. The band was isolated, and all of their musical aspirations were seemingly put on pause. Rather than give up, they worked to find a way to share their work with the community. Through live-streaming, engaging with fans online, and even playing on Chris’s front lawn, the band kept their momentum. 

 

After their rocky start in the pandemic, Mood Jungle released multiple singles and their 2023 album, “Lost In The Jungle.” Recently, they were discovered by the student-run record label Don’t Flunk Me Records. Giving the band a creative homecoming, the former students return to their academic roots. Through the label, the band hopes to expand their reach while maintaining authenticity.

As they continue to grow, Mood Jungle invites listeners to join them on a journey through soul and sound.