This band, by appearing to simplify the elements of a rock band and adding seemingly disparate accompaniment, is actually forging a whole new baroque/chamber/folk style of their own that is quite moving and complex.

In true TSK fashion 'Of Light' combines that lilting, high voice with the startling phrasing, the plinkity-plink of a toy piano or the wheeze of a child's whistle, braced by a deep thunderous baritone vocal, add the visceral thump of the tall upright bass and the usual assortment of guitars, drums, violin and mandolin, all wrapped up in strange, sad, yet oddly optimistic compositions and you get a sense of the overwhelming and joyous presence of Tommy Santee Klaws. Although 'Of Light' treads more on the circle of life; from love, death and light, it will not disappoint any longtime TSK fan.

Tommy Santee was born in California, but settled in Thailand with his family, where his parents were missionaries for Assemblies of God. By his early teens, his family had relocated Tommy and brother Sam (who is also an integral part of TSK) back to the US. Like his music, unpredictability and adventure seem to have marked his early life. With a tumultuous childhood, music became a refuge and savior for Tommy and with this early discovery it was without a doubt what his life had in store for him, but music, with a sense of ease and purposeful direction.

After 8 releases to date, with 'Of Light,' it sounds like TSK’s musical journey has finally come together to produce the most authentic and appropriate recorded representation of the magic this band creates and shares on stage. Perhaps Tommy would agree that his lifelong dream of creating music has come to full flowering with Of Light.