Zongo Junction

 Zongo Junction is generating a well-deserved buzz in NYC’s burgeoning afrobeat scene. The ensemble blends West African rhythms with funk, jazz and soul. True to their inspiration, Nigerian superstar, political activist and afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the outfit excites dance floors wherever they perform. The critics agree. “The only thing Zongo Junction has to do to start a legitimate dance party is show up and plug in…anyone... More

 Zongo Junction is generating a well-deserved buzz in NYC’s burgeoning afrobeat scene. The ensemble blends West African rhythms with funk, jazz and soul. True to their inspiration, Nigerian superstar, political activist and afrobeat pioneer Fela Anikulapo Kuti, the outfit excites dance floors wherever they perform. The critics agree. “The only thing Zongo Junction has to do to start a legitimate dance party is show up and plug in…anyone within a square block earshot of this Ford-tough funk factory would be hard pressed not to join in the hoopla,” says the Bay Area’s SF Station. “Sheer energy, with a brawny horn section that played unison lines with the force of a tractor-trailer and a rhythm section that roared with power and noise.” Says the Village Voice. The band, 12 pieces in total, has toured extensively throughout the East and West coats. Including a sold out show at Slim’s in San Francisco on December 30, 2010, a Monday night residency at Brooklyn Bowl in June 2011 and a recent tour supporting Asheville, NC heavyweights, Toubab Krewe. The band released their debut album Thieves! on December 30, 2010. As afrobeat music has always done, the album speaks truth-to-power with humor and soul. The album’s five original songs feature long-time Fela Kuti band member, Leon Kaleta Ligan-Majek, on vocals. Members of the band have performed or recorded with: TV on the Radio, Meta and the Cornerstones, The Walkmen, and many more. Members: David Lizmi – Bass Charles Ferguson – Drums Morgan Greenstreet – Percussion Jordan Hyde – Guitar Ross Edwards – Keys Matt Nelson – Tenor Saxophone Jonah Parzen-Johnson – Baritone Saxophone Aaron Rockers – Trumpet Kevin Moehringer – Trombone Less