Grammy-Winning composer Michael Leonhart returns to The Jazz Standard on March 12th with his Fela Kuti-inspired “AFROBEAT SUITE.” The new show follows several sold out sets at The Jazz Standard, where Leonhart and his namesake orchestra creatively crafts themed compositions on the second Tuesday of each month.
AFROBEAT SUITE is a tribute to the West African musical style fused with American funk and jazz influences. It will feature current and former members of legendary Afrobeat band Antibalas including Stuart Bogie and Jordan McLean as well Dave Guy and Ian Hendrickson-Smith of the Roots/Tonight show band horn section.
“The depth and complexity of Afrobeat is a continuous source of inspiration for me, from a simple mood pick-me-up to a rally cry for change.” says Leonhart whose passion for Afrobeat extends far past his days performing with Antibalas in the award winning Fela on Broadway.
AFROBEAT SUITE blends the insatiable grooves and grit of James Brown, the timbres of West African music, the politically confrontational lyrics of the 1960s folk and protest movements, and the improvisational nature of 1960s jazz.
Featured performers include,
Kevin Razcka – Drums/Percussion
Daniel Freedman – Drums/Percussion
Danton Boller – Bass
Elizabeth Pupo-Walker – Percussion
Robbie Mangano – Guitar
Luke O’Malley – Guitar
Pauline Kim – Violin
Emily Hope-Price – Cello
Philip Dizack – Trumpet
Dave Guy – Trumpet
Carter Yasutake – Trumpet
Jordan McClean – Trumpet
Ray Mason – Trumpet
John Ellis – Tenor Sax
Stuart Bogie – Tenor Sax / Contra-Alto Clarinet and Bass Harmonica
Ian Hendrickson-Smith – Tenor, Flute
Jason Marshall – Bari Sax
Sara Schoenbeck – Bassoon
Michael Leonhart, the GRAMMY-winning trumpeter, composer, producer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, and Steely Dan and Mark Ronson collaborator released his debut album, The Painted Lady Suite, with The Michael Leonhart Orchestra via Sunnyside Records in 2018.
The Painted Lady Suite Available Via:
The Michael Leonhart Orchestra Live
March 12 – The Jazz Standard – Tickets
Michael Leonhart Online
Press Contact:
Brendan Gilmartin or Marilyn Reles
(347) 450-3048