THIS IS A DANCE PARTY!

Inspired by the traditional drum rhythms of Ghana, Kotoko Brass has created a unique, joyful, and improvisational style of West African dance music described by the BostonGlobe as “propulsive, infectious party music”. The drums provide the heart and soul of Kotoko Brass — merging syncopated African percussion polyrhythms with hard-hitting dance grooves on the drum set. The horns blend traditional sounds of New Orleans with the famous West African brass band sound heard from Ghana to Nigeria, and the guitar, keys, and bass evoke classic African and Caribbean styles of highlife, afro beat, and reggae.

A celebratory and energetic synthesis of music, people, and cultures fromaround the world, Kotoko Brass features musicians from Ghana, Antigua, Japan, and the United States playing together in unity. Kotoko Brass has shared the stage with An-gelique Kidjo, Red Baraat, Femi Kuti, the California Honeydrops, Vieux Farka Toure, In-nov Gnawa, Take 6, the Boston Pops, Rubblebucket, and more.

Attah Poku (percussion) was born and raised in Ghana inside the walls of the Asante King’s palace, and grew up to be a lead drummer in the king’s drum ensemble.

Michael Ofori (percussion) is a multifaceted performing artist from Ghana — his creative interests lie in African performing arts traditions including drumming, acting, and directing.

Ben Paulding (drum set) is an American percussionist who extensively lived and trainedin Kumasi, Ghana, and now directs the Fafali Ghanaian drum and dance ensemble atBrandeis University.

Brian Paulding (trombone) has traveled the world playing pop, soul, reggae, and calypso music in Turkey, Tunisia, Georgia, Germany, Trinidad, Canada, and across the United States.

Dillon Zahner (guitar) specializes in African guitar styles from across the continent, playing music from Mozambique, Senegal, and Mali in bands such as Kina Zore, M’Bolo, and Samba Lolo.

Yusaku Yoshimura (keys) is an internationally touring pianist who has performed and recorded with Earl Chinna Smith and shared stages with Patti LaBelle, Ledisi, and Lalah Hathaway.

M’Talewa Thomas (bass) came to the U.S. in the 90s from his home country of Antigua after touring the Caribbean for many years with leading calypso act Short Shirt.

Andy Bergman (sax) is a versatile andeclectic global musician who has toured the world performing with bands such as Iyeo-ka Okoawo, Guy Mendilow, and the Macrotones.

$17 advance | $22 day-of | $10 student

*fees not included ($2 facility fee per ticket + cc processing fees)

Greg Abate , Saxophone & flute

Bill Wightman , piano

Keala Kaumeheiwa , bass

Les Harris Jr , drums

Greg Abate jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer continues as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 225 days a year touring the globe.

In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years. In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to ’87.

Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.

Greg’s newest release Gratitude, with the Tim Ray Trio has received glowing reviews and a lot of international airplay. Also, check out Greg's other recordings including special guests Phil Woods and other notable artists.

$20 advance $25 door

This concert is made possible with the generous support of