If you’ve been following the psychedelic movement or the evolving landscape of therapeutic music, you’re likely familiar with East Forest, the innovative musician and guide who has made a mark by blending music with psychedelic experiences. This September, East Forest’s work takes a major leap into the spotlight with the national theatrical release of his debut feature-length documentary, "Music for Mushrooms." This film offers an intimate look into the transformative power of music and psychedelics, and it’s set to make waves across the U.S.
A Personal and Professional Milestone
The film will premiere on September 13 at the Angelika Village East in New York and on October 4 at the Laemmle Monica Film Center in Los Angeles. Following these initial showings, it will roll out nationwide through a mix of traditional screenings and special event presentations. The nationwide tour includes major cities like Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, San Diego, Santa Cruz, Denver, and Chicago. One of the most notable events will be a nationwide, one-night-only screening on October 10, marking World Mental Health Day and fostering important discussions about mental well-being.
For East Forest, whose real name is Krishna-Trevor Oswalt, this film represents a significant moment in his career. "Music for Mushrooms" delves deeply into his personal journey and explores how music can serve as a potent tool for healing and transformation when combined with psychedelics.
A Journey Through Music and Psychedelics
East Forest has spent the past fifteen years at the forefront of a unique subculture where music and psychedelics converge as tools for personal and collective healing. Known for his collaborations with spiritual luminaries like the late Ram Dass, East Forest’s approach is rooted in shamanistic traditions and guided psychedelic experiences. His music, often described as transcendent and therapeutic, aims to help individuals confront their inner struggles and find a renewed sense of hope and direction.
In "Music for Mushrooms," East Forest provides a window into his practices and philosophies. The film is more than just a documentary; it’s a resonant exploration of how music and psychedelics can facilitate profound personal transformation. The narrative is enriched by intimate encounters with individuals whose lives have been dramatically changed by these practices. Through these stories, the film highlights the healing potential of art, spirituality, and psychedelics in our increasingly disconnected world.
Insights and Perspectives
The film features insights from several notable figures in the field. Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris, a Professor of Neurology, Psychiatry, and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, discusses how music interacts with the psychedelic state. "Your music speaks, I think, to nature," Carhart-Harris explains. "The music provides structure on top of a fundamentally dysregulated state that is the psychedelic state." This commentary underscores the film’s exploration of how music can enhance and guide psychedelic experiences.
Kirt Eftekhar, CEO of Area 23a, the distributor handling the film’s release, expresses excitement about the project. “We are thrilled to be working with East Forest and to have the opportunity to connect and inspire audiences across America with this transformational film,” Eftekhar says. “It provides communities with a one-of-a-kind platform to discuss how they can benefit from the use of music and psychedelic therapy to alleviate years of suffering.”
A Star-Studded Cast
The documentary includes contributions from a diverse array of experts and luminaries. This includes the spiritual leader Ram Dass, musician and producer Peter Broderick, DJ and producer ANNA, and East Forest’s partner, Marisa Radha Weppner, who is a Ketamine and Somatic Therapist and Yoga Teacher. Each of these individuals brings a unique perspective to the film, enriching its exploration of psychedelics and music.
Other notable figures featured in the documentary include Charles Eisenstein, an author and public speaker; Xóchitl Ashe, a 5th generation Peruvian Andean Medicine Woman; and Hanifa Nayo Washington, an activist and Healing Justice Practitioner. Their diverse experiences and insights provide a broad understanding of the various ways in which psychedelics and music intersect with personal and spiritual healing.
Behind the Scenes
The film is directed by Krishna-Trevor Oswalt, who also appears as the central figure. It is produced by Lewis Kofsky and edited by Rachel Clara Reed. The executive producers include Christopher Seward, Nicole Pritchett, Maria Betania Fernandez, and Tyler Wakstein. The directors of photography are John Dahlgren, Mark Grochowski, and Krishna-Trevor Oswalt himself.
About East Forest and Area 23a
East Forest is renowned for his pioneering work in the psychedelic music space. Since 2008, he has been blending music with personal transformation, establishing himself as a significant voice in the wellness and psychedelic communities. His long-form compositions are widely used in settings from yoga classes to luxury retreats, reflecting a growing acceptance and interest in psychedelic experiences.
Area 23a is a distributor known for its versatile approach to theatrical releases. The company specializes in event-driven and issue-based films, offering unique distribution methods to reach audiences globally. Their credits include notable films such as "Fantastic Fungi," "HEAL," and "Revenge of the Electric Car."
"Music for Mushrooms" is more than just a film; it’s an invitation to explore the transformative potential of music and psychedelics. With its upcoming nationwide release, East Forest’s documentary promises to spark conversations and inspire individuals across the country. As the psychedelic renaissance continues to unfold, this film stands as a testament to the profound impact that music and psychedelics can have on personal and collective healing.
For those interested in this unique cinematic experience, "Music for Mushrooms" offers a compelling exploration of the intersection between art and psychedelics, set to inspire and resonate long after the credits roll.
For more https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/september/national-mushroom-month-september
