Second Sundays: Kaleta & Zozo Afrobeat and Zenen Zeferino y La Verdolaga en Playa

Transport yourself back to the sun-kissed, early autumn vibes of Pioneer Work’s October 2015 Second Sunday with these two live recordings of Zenen Zeferino y La Verdolaga en Playa and Kaleta & Zozo Afrobeat.

Zenen Zeferino is a jarana player and poet from Veracruz, Mexico who has been a pioneering force in Son Jarocho music for the last thirty years. Born in Jáltipan de Morelos, Veracruz, he was a founding member of the legendary group Chuchumbé in the 1990’s and later Quemayama. With this new formation, Zenen keeps pushing the boundaries of tradition, with roots in Afro-Mexican rhythms and an ear for related and un-related styles. He was accompanied by Esther Cruz Maranto, percussionist and dancer, and a selection of veteran New York-based Son Jarocho musicians.

Led by Benin-born singer, guitarist and producer Kaleta & Zozo Afrobeat is a 13-piece ensemble featuring musicians from around the world. "Zozo", taken from the Goun and Fon word for “something hot,” truly keeps the Afrobeat fires burning. The band is known for its remarkably energetic shows and its cascades of horns, hypnotic Benino-Nigerian rhythms, and captivating solos. They have performed Central Park Summerstage and Lincoln Center. Featuring Sade Emmanuel – vocals, Andrew Cowie – Bari Sax, Noah Dreiblatt – Tenor Sax, TBA – Trumper, Karl Markgraf – guitar, Zach Cohen – Guitar, Daniel Berg – Keys, Ran Livneh – Bass, Gabe Turow – Drums, Folachade Abiala – percussion.

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