Through his travels, Farshid accumulated the music of the world, making it his own, weaving the variety of styles and influences together into a sound that is unique and familiar. His band, Farshid Etniko is an ensemble that performs Latin, popular jazz standards, as well as compositions that blend Middle Eastern instruments and influences with Latin beats and American blues sensibilities.

Just listening to his demo will give you a true sense of what Farshid's travels bring to the music scene of America. Farshid Soltanshahi, whose musical journey has taken him from Iran to France, Germany, Belgium, Luxembourg and, most recently, Missouri will bring an extraordinary element to any event.

"Farshid has created his own lavish, passionate, dreamlike language and on 'Nightmare in Heaven' his band asserts itself as one of the most original, accomplished and exhilarating groups in St. Louis."
Riverfront Times

"Harmonicas reminiscent of Toot Thielman's, the verve of The Gypsy Kings, dancing fingers on the guitar like those of Paco de Lucia, teases lolling Brazilian syncopations, and funky claves everywhere."
The Alestle

"Their recent CD release party for "Nightmare in Heaven" was held at the Sheldon to a capacity crowd. The impassioned response of the crowd to each song was exhilarating, as well as phenomenal."
St. Louis Musicians Guide and Directory

"Farshid Etniko's music can be enjoyed in so many ways. The skill the band displays with their instruments makes each performance a form of visual entertainment. After one performance, you are hooked and end up buying a copy of their CD."
Playback Magazine

"Soltanshahi masterfully defies categories and blurs musical boundaries, which renders his songs sonically irresistible."
St. Louis Magazine

"Farshid Soltanshahi, whose musical journey has taken him from Iran to France, Germany, Luxembourg and, most recently, Missouri. The band also features champion harmonica player Sandy Weltman."
Riverfront Times

"I think this group is the best! Their music is great and the audience really enjoyed. We will have them again in the future."
Marco A. Romero
Meramec Community College

"Loved him!"
Starr Mihaljevic
Realty Exchange

"Loved the music!"
Kate Booth
Almost Home