August 3, 2011 Leana Song 5:00-8:00 PM at Penn Museum

A drum and music ensemble specializing in Afro-Cuban and West African drumming combines traditional call-and-response patterned Yoruba songs with modern folk and jazz instruments and harmony.
Admission $5. for non members; free for Penn Museum members

July 29, 2011 6:30-7:30 PM Brasil Cultural Center presents "Meet the Artist" VIP Reception

The Brasil Cultural Center in conjunction with Mamadele Productions, Ginga P. Productions, and American Airlines presents - Encontros Percussivos - the US premiere of Mikael Mutti and his band Percussivo Mundo Novo at the World Cafe Live on Friday, July 29th at 8:00PM. Read what the New York Times said Friday, July 22 about Mutti and his group. They will close out the Central Park SummerStage Festival with an appearance at New York's Sounds of Brazil. Their first US performance will be in Philly. The Percussion Encounter will open with the rhythms of another top percussionist from Bahia, Dende and Band. The music is going to be white hot and explosive! Check out the videos.
Tickets $10.

NYTIMES 7/22/11 - The festival’s final show, on July 30 at S.O.B.’s, has Percussivo Mundo Novo, an ensemble based in the northeastern Brazilian state of Bahia that will be performing in New York for the first time, aims to show that even a joystick, a Wii remote and an iPad, which Mikael Mutti, the founder of the five-piece group, inserts into the body of a mock guitar, can be made into musical instruments.

Mr. Mutti, who has played with Carlinhos Brown, the German heavy metal band Scorpions and Carlos Santana, speaking by telephone from Salvador, Brazil said, “We want to show that the electronics can be used without losing the essence of timeless rhythms, that something which looks like a silly game can be transformed into a real instrument with an interesting sonority.”

July 29, 2011 8PM "Dendê and Percussao Novo Mundo" at World Cafe Live

A former member of Timbalada, Dendê has been performing professionally since the age of 14. With Timbalada, Dendê toured all over Brazil, Europe and Asia, appeared on various television shows and has performed and recorded with such artists as Marisa Monte, Gilberto Gil, Carlinhos Brown, Yvette Sangalo and Sepultura. Having left Brazil in 2001, Dendê now lives in New York, performing and recording with his groups Hahahaes, an Afro-Brazilian/Afro-Cuban band, Arrastao, an Afro-Brazilian percussion band, and Ologunde, an Afro-Brazilian folkloric music and dance group. With these groups he has toured all over the US and Europe. In addition to his own work, he has performed and recorded with artists such as Mongo Santamaria, Jerry Gonzales, Daniel Moreno, Tico da Costa, Vinicius Cantuaria and Alessandra Belloni. Dendê also teaches Afro-Brazilian percussion in the New York City area.

Dendê | Percussao Novo Mundo


Friday, July 29, 2011 | Doors 7pm | Show 8pm | Downstairs Live

Tickets:
Floor (Standing Room): $16 ($12 ticket + $4 processing fee)
Loge (Reserved Seating): $19 ($15 ticket + $4 processing fee)
Mezzanine (Reserved Seating): $24 ($15 + $9 premium service*/processing fee)*priority seating and VIP amenities/service.

July 27, 2011 Bomplé 5:00-8:00 PM at Penn Museum

Tickets $5. Well-priced cocktails and delicious food by Wolfgang Puck!
Genre
Bomba, Plena
Members
Pagán, Maribel, Tony, Juli, Yesenia
Hometown
Philadelphia, PA
Description
Bomplé is a Philadelphia based Puerto Rican bomba and plena music group. For performances, workshops and classes call 267-240-8111 or e-mail albertopagan@yahoo.com
Biography
Alberto Pagán Ramírez worked towards creating the full bomba and plena music group Bomplé in 2008 in Philadelphia after 4 years directing the previously founded bomba and plena percussion ensemble Tambueno.
General Manager
Alberto Pagán Ramírez
Press Contact
Alberto Pagán Ramírez
Influences
All bomberos and pleneros
Band Interests
Performance and instruction

July 24 Lira at World Cafe Live Upstairs

Lira Over the past few years - buoyed by multi-platinum sales of her three studio albums and live DVD, a mantelpiece full of awards and support of fans - Lira has made no secret of her desire to find a global audience for her music. “I have big dreams,” Lira has frequently been quoted as saying – and it looks increasingly likely that this rare artist will see those begin to flourish in 2011. Her music is finally becoming available in North America for the first time via a self-titled five song EP (Lira) being released on July 19th. Her first tour dates in the US are in July, as well. A full length album, Feel Good – a compilation featuring songs from her three Sony releases in Africa will be released on January 31, 2012. Lira’s triumph at the 2009 South African Music Awards, where she won ‘Album of the Year’ and ‘Best Female Artist’ for the 2008 record, Soul In Mind, and subsequent multi-platinum sales of her second two records and her Live In Concert – A Celebration DVD (2010) were proof enough that her heady mixture of old school soul, spiced with enough contemporary twists, had connected amongst her South African audience. If comparisons are to be made, there’s a real feel of Sade’s earlier work, in Lira’s scorching, soul-filled vocals. And yet the subtle sense of her South African roots that flickers throughout the material, along with Lira’s unique vocal stylings mean there is nothing copycat about her. “It was always my feeling that I don’t want to be boxed into being a particular kind of artist,” Lira says with the quiet emphasis of someone who knows precisely what they desire. “I never want to be restrained in what sounds we include on records so there is some funk, ragga, latin, jazz, urban, traditional African sounds, and, of course, plenty of soul.”

Artist's website | Artist Videos Sunday, July 24, 2011 | Show 8pm | Upstairs Live Advance Tickets: General Admission Seating/Standing*: $13 ($10 ticket + $3 processing fee) Day of Show Tickets: General Admission Seating/Standing*: $15 ($12 ticket + $3 processing fee)

July 23, 2011 40th Street Summer Series 6 PM

Location
Walnut Street West Library (Free Library of Philadelphia)
40th and Walnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA
Created By
University City District
More Info
Saturday, July 23, 6pm
CYRO BAPTISTA’S BANQUET OF THE SPIRITS
+ JOSEPH BOWIE & ADAM RUDOLPH

Join us in July for the Philadelphia debut of Cyro Baptista’s Banquet of the Spirits. One of the greatest Brazilian percussionists today, Cyro Baptist is best known for his ensemble Beat the Donkey and has worked closely with many of the world's most acclaimed musicians including Herbie Hancock, Paul Simon, Medeski Martin & Wood, Wynton Marsalis, Yo-Yo Ma, Laurie Anderson and countless others. Expect to hear a delightful program of experimental Brazilian pop songs in addition to the music of John Zorn. A “pioneer in world music” (The New York Times), percussionist Adam Rudolph is joined by multi-instrumentalist Joseph Bowie for an opening duo set that is grounded in the cosmologies of Europe, Africa, the Middle East, Asia, and the African Diaspora.
+ Free Rita's Water Ice!

Bring your chairs, blankets, family and friends!

July 22, 2011 Venissa Santi at Art After Five at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Hi this Friday night come out and share music with us.. our full sextet, featuring the artistry of John Stenger, Jason Fraticelli, Francois Zayas, Tim Thompson, and Cuco Castellanos with Special guests Jeff Lee Johnson, Adrienne Hall Cendeño, Josh Robinson, and Nezie Antakli. This event with be captured on film come be with us!
In 2009, the Cuban American jazz singer, Venissa Santi beguiled critics and fans with her magnificent debut record, Bienvenida (Sunnyside Records). The collection of songs was so well-formed and mature was that it has been likened to a musical miracle rather than a “first album.” This amazing chanteuse has now finished what is to become a stunning new record Big Stuff: Afro Cuban Holiday (working title).
After you leave the art museum, you can hop on over to World Cafe Live and catch Alô Brasil's 9:30 pm show. You'll already be in the neighborhood.
Free after museum admission ($16.for non-members)

July 22, 2011 9:30 pm Alô Brasil at World Cafe Live

Alô Brasil, consisting of twelve Philadelphia musicians spanning three generations, was born out of a passion for Brazilian music. Accompanied by stunningly costumed dancers, the band draws audiences into a "tornado of rhythm and sound" (Philadelphia City Paper) — an irresistible, full body-and-soul experience. Whether parading down Broad Street, opening for gala events or awards ceremonies at Philadelphia's top venues, or captivating hundreds of revelers at local nightspots, Alô Brasil never fails to enchant. The band's repertoire is rooted in African influenced rhythms (samba batucada, samba reggae, pagode, maracatú, ijexá), and others, from many different regions of Brazil.

Puerto Rican Bomba and Plena classes for children, teens, and adults

July 16, 2011 Noon to 8 PM Global Fusion Festival at Penn's Landing FREE

Wrapping up the week on Saturday, July 16th Philadelphia’s hottest free party on the water, celebrates the cultures of the world by featuring ethnic dance performances, cultural vendors, kid's activities and a concert with national headliners such as British R&B songstress Estelle, Melanie Fiona plus more. *Alô Brasil is scheduled to play 4:30-5:00 PM.*
Where: Penn’s Landing, Great Plaza; Philadelphia
Free Admission
Time: Noon – 8pm

July 14, 2011 "Conjunto Philadelphia"at Chris'Jazz Cafe 7-10 PM

Conjunto Philadelphia is a musical ensemble based in the Philadelphia area performing the music of Pre-Revolutionary Cuba. The group's main aspiration is to maintain the authenticity of the music while performing it in a way that pays homage to Cuba's deep and treasured musical history. Genres include Son, Cha-cha-chá, Bolero, and Danzón.
Cover: $10/students $5.

July 1 to August 27, 2011 "Audioacity" at Sande Webster Gallery

Audioacity
This is a show of art inspired by jazz, and includes paintings, drawings, prints and photography. Artists whose work is featured are Andrew Turner, James Atkins, Paul Keene, Sam Byrd, Wadsworth Jarrell, Mark Wallison, James Brantley, Moe Brooker, Adger Cowans, Erik Mack, and Anthony Liggins.
Music As Muse: A Group Show

July 1st - August 27th, 2011
RECEPTION: Friday, July 8th, 6-8 pm





Live Performances

Jafar Barron 6:30 -7:30pm 7.8.2011

Charles Cohen 6:30-7:30pm 8.12.2011

July 9, 2011 9 PM Arturo Stable presents The Philadelphia Affair Project

July 9th and 10th, 2011 Hispanic Fiesta at Penn's Landing

The 30TH Annual Hispanic Fiesta, hosted by the Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations, Inc. (Concilio), will include a variety of folkloric music, dancing, entertainment, art, crafts and cuisine. As part of the PECO Multicultural Series, the history and heritage of Hispanic culture will be celebrated on the Great Plaza at Penn’s Landing on Columbus Boulevard at Chestnut Street on Saturday, July 9 and Sunday, July 10, 2011, from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

As in prior years, the Hispanic Fiesta will feature the various rhythms of Latin America including Salsa, Merengue and Bachata. In addition, the Fiesta will showcase artisan crafts and authentic foods from several Latin American and Caribbean countries such as Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic.

On Saturday July 9, everyone will be dancing to the music of headliner Henry Santos from the popular Bachata band, Aventura. Also on Saturday, the main stage will vibrate with the music of Zol y Luna. Formed in 2009, Zol y Luna's music repertoire is a mix of several musical genres including Merengue, Bachata, Salsa, Reggae, Pop and R&B.

On Sunday July 10, the main entertainment will be in the hands of Salsa singer José Alberto “El Canario”. José Alberto became a major Latin music star in 1984 after the release of his album Noches Calientes. With his album Dance with Me, released in 1991, José Alberto established a new style of Salsa music: salsa romántica. Ever since, “El Canario” has reached great success in the United States, Latin America and around the world.

Also on Sunday, special guest Chio from Wired 96.5 will be on stage addressing the crowd.

For the first time ever, there will also be comedy. Colombian-born, New York-bred actor and comedian Carlos González will present a comedy act. Carlos has appeared in such hit TV shows as HBO's Sex in the City and NBC's Law and Order. It is the combination of acting and comedy skills which has made Carlos a talented and multifaceted artist on stage.

Those looking for work might just get that job interview by attending the Hispanic Fiesta at Penn's Landing. Colonial Penn Insurance is happy to present the Job Corner. The public is encouraged to bring their resumes. Also, new this year, Health Partners is happy to present the Health Corner, where several health and wellness promoters will present valuable health information and much-needed screenings to the community.

This FREE Fiesta, now in its 30th year, works to publicize the importance of the Latino culture and the contribution of the Hispanic community to the Philadelphia region. This year, the Hispanic Fiesta at Penn's Landing is presented by State Farm.

Admission is FREE for all PECO Multicultural Series events. KYW Newsradio and NBC 10 are proud media partners of the series.

July 8 , 2011 PhillyBloco at World Cafe Live 9:00 PM

Experience the joy and excitement of the PhillyBloco Dance Party! PhillyBloco's 20+ members perform a raucous mash-up of Samba, Funk, Reggae and more, all set to the infectious drumming of Brazilian Carnaval. Earth Shaking Rhythms. Boundless Energy. Serious Fun. PhillyBloco...Get ready to Dance!PhillyBloco is modeled after the blocos of Rio de Janeiro, with their large percussion sections and harmonic/vocal accompaniment. Our group is comprised of twelve drummers, electric guitar, bass guitar, vocals, horn section, accordion, and Brazilian dancers. The group performs a raucous mash-up of SAMBA, FUNK, REGGAE and more made popular by both Brazilian and non-Brazilian artists including: Olodum, Timbalada, Monobloco, Bob Marley and Stevie Wonder. The one constant in all of our music is a heavy percussive element (12 drummers!) that we use to explore the tremendous range of Brazilian rhythms, applying our own unique creativity and energy to each arrangement.
Our music is extremely high energy, full of passion and feeling. We want to make people dance, feel good, and give them something to celebrate every time they see us perform!

July 6, 2011 Tres Compadres 5:00-8:00 PM at Penn Museum

Tres Compadres is a modern flamenco ensemble that explores the boundaries of flamenco and fusion while embracing the elements of tradition that make this genre of music such an incredible art form. Inspired by such notable artists as Paco de Lucia, Gerardo Nunez, Tomatito, and Vicente Amigo, Tres Compadres continues the legacy of seeking new ways of applying musical growth to an old tradition……………………. The concept behind the songs recorded on Que Pasa was to reflect the ensemble as a unit. This is not your typical “musicians back up guitarist” flamenco cd. Fast paced unison lines, thoughtful melodies, and complex rhythms interjected with virtuoso solos are featured throughout by all members of the ensemble. The band tackles such flamenco song forms (palos) as buleria, rumba, solea por buleria, tangos, tarantas, and solea. Tres Compadres shows its’ jazzy side on Fandangos, does a Latin inspired version of Chick Corea’s Armandos Rumba, and puts a world music edge to the Cat Steven’s classic Longer Boats…CD available on Cd Baby, ITunes and other major download sites.
Free for Penn Museum members; non-members just $5.

July 5 Freshlyground at World Cafe Live Downstairs 8pm

Freshlyground

Over the past seven years, and across three acclaimed albums, it’s become increasingly hard to precisely pinpoint just one reason why Freshlyground is so universally adored. Is it the magical combination of players? Or is it the fact that the seven-piece has created a signature sound, most overtly rooted in Afro-pop but drawing on a head-spinning array of influences including soul, folk, kwassa-kwassa, and global dance – a sound that’s delivered some of South Africa’s most evergreen radio and dancefloor hits? Maybe it’s the band’s legendary live shows which have been honed into something consistently special, driven by an infectious energy that no audience around has been able to resist? Most likely, though, as any devoted fan will tell you, it’s a combination of all these things: the magic lies in a band featuring excellent players who together write and record material that’s impossible not to embrace and then perform it live with the kind of energy that makes for lifelong memories.

July 2, 2011 "The Greatest Funeral Ever" at Chris' Jazz Cafe 11:30 PM

Just the name of the Band makes you want to come and see them!
The Greatest Funeral Ever has become a favorite to the fans of original music in Central PA. Their performances feature energetic, must-dance Latin and R&B-inspired tunes, as well as more contemplative jazz-influenced arrangements. The addition of the doumbek, congas, and other exciting percussion create an electrifying live music experience