Afrobeat Tour 2013 EMEFE & The Brand New Life January 14, 2013

On January 14th Strange Matter in Richmond will become a vehicle for rhythm and dancing. Brooklyn’s EMEFE brings a ten piece afrobeat ensemble complete with drum set, two percussionists, two guitars, bass and a four piece horn section to play music that sets the audience free, laying down a ferocious dance party. Formed by drummer Miles Arntzen of Antibalas, the band takes the musical tradition laid down by afrobeat’s forefather Fela Kuti and infuses it with American funk, hip hop and neo-soul. With a rock n roll edge and a hard hitting repertoire of original material, EMEFE has earned a reputation as one of the most exciting live acts out of New York City. The group has studied or played with Antibalas, Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings, Soulive, Tower of Power, Martin Medeski and Wood and more.

Based out of Greensboro, The Brand New Life is constantly creating its sound with a melting pot of sounds. Afrobeat, jazz, funk, rock and other influences from around the globe all find their way into the
band’s exciting repertoire. Drum set, congas, percussion, Senegalese talking drum along with upright bass and electric guitar set the driving, syncopated foundation for an adventurous horn section. The band fuses the best of musical traditions with dance inspired rhythms that drive intellectually engaging compositions. The Brand New Life has shared the stage with Seun Kuti and Egypt 80 (son of Fela Kuti), Antibalas, Orgone, Zechs Marquise and Greg Ginn (Black Flag) and has been touring the east coast for the past year.

Official Website: http://www.strangematterrva.com/