American jazz and West African music are joined by Joe Lovano’s new band. The tenor sax hero looks back on his 1981 encounter with afro beat legend Fela Kuti.

His encounter with afro beat pioneer Fela Kuti (1938-1997) is a true landmark for Joe Lovano. In 1981 the American tenor sax player had the opportunity to perform in Lagos, Nigeria with singer, sax player and band leader Kuti, who was already the people’s hero at that point. The performance with American and Nigerian musicians at Tafawa Belawa Square made a lasting impression on the then 29 year-old Lovano. After twenty-some albums on Blue Note and many awards, including a Grammy, he looks back on this historical meeting with Village Rhythms Band, showcasing the linear relationship between West African music and jazz. Drums come together with African percussion and guitar and bass blend with the sound of the kora, the African harp. This all gets connected through Lovano’s warm, inventive saxophone playing.

‘Joe Lovano works in many forms, but at bottom he’s a soulful, note caressing, tradition loving tenor player’ (New York Times).

Photography Policy
Absolutely no photos, recording, taping, videotaping or any other broadcast of the artist’s performance during the soundcheck or the concert will be allowed.

The Bimhuis restaurant is open prior to the concert from 6.30 til 8.30PM (reservations via 020-7882158). After the concert, the Bimhuis Café is open (free entrance).

For this concert you can purchase your ticket online or if still
available, at the box office of the Bimhuis. You can select your seat of
choice when buying the tickets. Click here for more information about seating and standing places.
Discount prices are available for students, CJP and Stadspas holders. Click on the tickets button below to see the discount.

1 SET

Joe Lovano tenorsax, Liberty Ellman gitaar, Michael Olatuja bas, Abdou Mboup Afrikaanse harp/percussie, Otis Brown III drums