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Band of the Hour: Coffee House Gypsies

By Rayme Samuels

A sense of humor can go a long way in the ever changing music industry. Luckily, Coffee House Gypsies has plenty to go around, and are finding that keeping things light has been the perfect strategy to a steady success on the Miami scene.

Starting off as an acoustic act playing in bookstores and coffee shops, this group's history provides a clue to their quirky name. "It all started because we u

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sed to hang out at a local Starbucks writing music and jamming. The regulars got to know us and nicknamed us, 'those coffeehouse gypsies' and the name stuck," says vocalist Mata. With a playful sob he continued, "Now we are all java junkies." Along with Mata, the group of java junkies consists of Alexandra Norris (vocals and rhythm guitar), Eric Valdes (lead guitar, vocals), Fred Napolitano (saxophone, flute), John Segovia (drums, percussion) and Colin Trusedell (bass).

CHG's sound is reminiscent of The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac and The Mamas and the Papas. A quintessential jam band, they sometimes rock out with electric guitars and synthesizers or play mellow acoustic rhythms. Sometimes they even recite spoken word poetry between songs. "Whenever we ask someone to describe our sound they look at us like we just asked them the square root of sixty-seven thousand four hundred and twenty-two. But we know that what we are doing is bridging and transcending generational gaps with music, and that's cool," says Mata.

Their debut studio album, The Artist, provides a stream of fan favorites, including the ethereal "Not Even Love" and "Bittersweet." When asked what their favorite part of playing for Miami audiences was, Valdes jokes, "We don't have to pay for a hotel!" On a serious note, Mata praised the budding scene: "We love the fact that we are part of this big uprising of live local music."

Coffee House Gypsies will perform on Friday, November 21st at Tobacco Road's 96th Anniversary Party Extravaganza; 626 South Miami Avenue, Miami. For more info on CHG, visit www.myspace.com/CoffeeHouseGypsies

Band of the hour: MAYDAY!

By Rayme Samuels

MAYDAY! manifests an undeniable star power. The dynamic alt hip-hop band has collaborated with Cee-Lo and shared stages with the likes of Daft Punk, The Red Jumpsuit Apparatus and Method Man, winning over audiences around the country. Within two days of posting their video for hit song "Groundhog Day" on YouTube, MAYDAY! received over 2 million hits. The song then got picked up on HBO's hit series Entourage. And that leaves fans wondering, "Can we be in their entourage?"

For this six member outfit, the mission is to make sure the world realizes that musicians from this city can compete culturally with the best of them. "No doubt, it takes a real talented group to break here. We feel very lucky to have earned our stripes here. We played nightclubs for a year before we got a real movement behind us. Now it's like a speeding locomotive, the crowds don't stop coming," said vocalist Berniz. Currently in the laboratory recording their sophomore album, MAYDAY! will continue the journey as they play around the city and state in preparation for a national tour next summer.

Founding members Berniz and Plex on keyboard met during the aftermath of the notorious Hurricane Andrew. The rest of the members, Wrekonize on vocals, Primo on bass, Gianni Cah on turntables and percussion and L.T. Hopkins on drums, came later to round out the sextet. "Wrek and I have more of a pop sensibility in the stuff we write than Plex does. He usually brings more theory and science to the mix," said Berniz about how they do what they do. He continued, "It's really the combination or balance of the two that gives us our unique sound."

Without a doubt, fierce beats and slick production hype up their performances. But it's the depth of their lyrics that keep people coming back for more. Berniz explains, "The most inspiring thing about music to us is the unknown, and how you can start not knowing where a song or riff will take you until suddenly your memory and musical sensibilities start to show themselves and manifest into the piece. It's pretty dope... like magic every time."

For more info, visit www.myspace.com/FirstDayofMay

http://www.miami.com/band-of-the-hour-mayday-article

Imaginary Homeland and Kakande @ DROM

By Rayme Samuels

Tucked away next to a kebab shop on New York City’s Lower East side one can find Drom, a hotspot legendary for welcoming international musicians. On October 26th, the cavernous nightclub and restaurant hosted a remarkable night of West African music with two amazing groups: Imaginary Homeland and Kakande.

Imaginary Homeland, an acoustic jazz quartet led by renowned musician, composer and founder of Jumbie Records, David Rogers, started off the evening with an intricate set of songs off of their latest album, Jump for George. The crowd responded with enthusiastic clapping as the band performed fast paced and uplifting songs like “Interlude to the Auctioning of a Goat” and “Straight from the Horses Tail.”

The crowd roared when the headlining act of the night, Kakande, hit the stage. In a matter of moments the energy in the room shifted and all were aware that they were in the presence of musical royalty. With a deep groove, the band challenged the stage not to burst at the seams with talented musicians. Smiling brightly, balafon (xylophone) master Famoro Dioubate kept his 7 piece band in line.

Born into one of the most revered family of griots of the Mandé Empire in Guinea, Dioubate effortlessly honors the legacy of musical traditions that date back to the 13th century. Speaking of his home village in a recent interview he revealed, “My father and mother come from Kakande. I first went there when I was a kid. I loved to go there to play music with all the people in the forest. Some would play guitar, some would play the n’goni (5-7 string lute), some the kora (21-string harp-lute). In the morning there was always music, and at night they would sing.”

Playing songs off of Kakande’s latest release, Dununya (released on Jumbie Records), it was clear each member loved to be there, dancing away as they played with a hypnotizing energy on their respective instruments: cello, clarinet, bass, guitar, drums and flute.

In a humorous moment, a friend of Dioubate’s joined him onstage and began to sing along freestyle, and took a 20 dollar bill out of his pocket and slapped it on the balafon player’s sweaty forehead- a cheerful display of reverence for the artists work. The rock influenced rhythms spurned a group of somewhat docile concert goers to begin a playful circle of dancers beneath the stage. As the night went on more people continued to trickle into Drom and were immediately sucked into the feel good vibrations of the venue. For those who were too busy upstairs getting a kebab, they truly missed out on a special evening.

Rayme Samuels is a freelance cultural journalist. Visit her website on fresh global culture at www.raymesamuels.wordpress.com

http://beyondrace.com/reviews/concerts/804-imaginary-homeland-and-kakande-drom

Band of the Hour: Origen

By Rayme Samuels

The first step to knowing where you're going in life is to recognize where you come from. Origen, or "origin" in Spanish, is a hot new group that pays homage to their heritage while producing powerful rock en Español beats inspired by the future. They're a cultural mélange made up of Isabel Rueda, aka Mirs, lead vocalist from Ecuador; Hector Velazquez, guitarist from Venezuela; Ruben Martinez, bass player from Mexico; and Tonio Cuto, drummer from Venezuela. "Since each band member comes from different countries, we felt that the word 'origin' represents us. Through our music we always try to reflect back to our origins," explained Mirs.
Ruben, Tonio and Mirs, who have all known each other since high school, decided that it would be fun to form a band. The only problem? No one knew how to play an instrument. This proved to be a temporary hurdle, as the band quickly taught themselves and each other how to make beautiful music. Hector came along a few years later to round out the group on the guitar.

Describing their experience in this city, Mirs said, "Playing for Miami audiences is an electrifying experience that becomes an actual adventure. First of all we are a Miami band, so Miami is our 'casa.' Second, Miami's enriching culture variety makes it an opportunity to reach out to different nationalities. This gives us the chance to learn different rhythms and musical flavors to implement in our sound."

Growing up in eclectic South Florida, they have each been bombarded with different musical styles including Matchbox 20, Bon Jovi, Guns N' Roses, Red Hot Chili Peppers, The Police, The Jam, Beatles, The Rolling Stones, John Mayer, Coldplay, U2 and Soda Stereo. They also find influence in Latin acts such as Gustavo Cerati, Mana, Shakira, Ricardo Arjona, King Chango and Publico.

Their self-titled debut album, which can be found at various outlets online, was borne of a creative process where each band member contributed lyrics and music in a true team effort. For example, "Muñeca Rota," a song that talks about a girl who always felt neglected by people around her because of her looks, was written in one day during a beach get-together with an acoustic guitar.

Next on the horizon for Origen is the release of their soon-to-be-announced second single, as well as a music video to go with it. They're also working on planning a tour that spans the east and west coasts as well as Puerto Rico. All along the way, Origen remains dedicated to giving back to their local and Latin American communities by supporting charities and non-profits organizations. In the spirit of karma, many good things are sure to come their way in the future.

Origen performs during the BMI Showcase at the Miami Science Museum on Saturday Oct 25th at 1 p.m. and at Mansion on Thursday, Oct 30th at 10 p.m. For more info, visit origenweb.com


http://www.miami.com/band-of-the-hour-origen-article

Ayo: Beyond Race Magazine

By Rayme Samuels

Inspired by her favorite artist, Donny Hathaway, Ayo writes because it's good for her soul. Each song on her critically acclaimed debut album, Joyful, serves as a puzzle piece to her true identity. Tracks like “Life Is Real,” an uplifting folksy anthem, or “Down On My Knees,” a reggae inspired tale of heartbreak, paint a compelling portrait of a singer's dedication to self-expression and healing.

To read the article in its entirety, pick up the Fall 2008 issue of BRM or subscribe online. Enjoy my first print magazine piece!


http://beyondrace.com/component/content/article/733

Rhythm Foundation: 20 Years of World Music

By Rayme Samuels

In August of 1988, Brazilian bossa nova legend Milton Nascimento headlined a concert produced by an unknown organization dedicated to bringing world music to South Florida. This October at the Arscht Center, Milton Nascimento will perform again, this time with bossa nova outfit the Jobim Trio to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the Rhythm Foundation.

The foremost presenter of world music in the region, RF has produced over 250 concerts by artists from Brazil, Latin America, the Caribbean, Africa, Asia and Europe. With an average of 15 concerts and festivals held each year at various venues in South Florida, the RF has found its greatest success specifically with Brazilian artists, including Seu Jorge, Gilberto Gil and Bebel Gilberto. While fall is an important time for the arts, the organization's signature spring event, the TransAtlantic Series, also serves as a vital exploration of modern world music, an exciting combination of electronica and traditional sounds.

Twenty years ago, RF was founded in Miami to increase multicultural awareness through the presentation of live music and related programming, to develop a diverse audience and to have this audience share experiences and better understand the different cultures that make up South Florida. "In the end, the amazing concerts were just a by product," said Laura Quinlan, the current director of RF whose husband James Quinlan spearheaded the creation of the organization. "We only present artists that we are really passionate about -- that we think will connect with people."

They've come a long way from humble origins in the historic Cameo Theater on South Beach, and have blossomed from their initial aims to build the nonprofit as well as renovate the building. Their 2008 fall season has been laid out over the month of October and includes Brazilian bossa nova, French electro-pop, electronic tango and argentine jazz:

Milton Nascimento + the Jobim Trio
Saturday, October 4th
Arsht Center for the Performing Arts
The son and grandson of Antonio Carlos Jobim and Brazil's legendary singer Milton Nascimento perform in tribute to the 50th anniversary of bossa nova.

Yelle
Friday, October 10th
Polish American Club, Miami
The French electro-pop group, who are icons in Paris, perform with DJ Grand Marnier, and promote the dance craze their beats have inspired called the tectonic.

Bajofondo
Tuesday, October 14th
Fillmore Miami Beach
The Argentine-Uruguyan electronic tango group led by Gustavo Sataolalla (cofounder, guitarrist, and Academy Award-winning composer for the films Amores Perros, Motorcycle Diaries, and Brokeback Mountain), producers/keyboardists Juan Campodonico and DJ Supervielle, and a large team of the top tango artists and DJs.

Pablo Ziegler
Thursday, October 30th
University of Miami Gusman Hall
Pablo Zieger is Latin Grammy nominated former musical director of Argentine great Astor Piazzola who explores jazz as it meets tango.

For more info on the Rhythm Foundation, visit www.rhythmfoundation.com

http://www.miami.com/rhythm-foundation-20-years-of-world-music-article

One Night Stand: Flaunt @ Martini Bar

By Rayme Samuels

Partying on South Beach? We've all been there. Dancing in Brickell? We've all done that. This Saturday night make the trek to South Miami. Located just off of US 1, Sunset Place, which, during the day, offers a haven for shoppers and families, transforms at night into the perfect place to go to dinner, see a movie and, of course, enjoy a great party. Just listen for the loud music spilling out of Martini Bar.

Flaunt Saturdays at Martini Bar is the perfect ladies night event. And the main attraction of this night focuses around one thing all ladies love: shopping. Around midnight, the crowd judges a "Flaunt Your Outfit" contest where the best dressed wins a designer purse by Coach. That's right -- Coach.

Named after one of the sexiest cocktails around, Martini Bar doesn't take any shortcuts when it comes to stocking the bar. The most popular drink, "Sex with an Accent," is a fruity and refreshing combination of Bacardi Limón, Bacardi Razz, peach schnapps and cranberry and orange juice. For those that are more daring, try the "Dirty Executive Martini," a hearty mix of Imperial vodka and olive juice. After a few of these, you'll no doubt want to hop on the dance floor. House DJ Gabe mixes things up for the crowd by combining today's pop and hip-hop chart toppers interspersed with intoxicating salsa and bachata beats.

The split-level club gets packed with an upbeat mix of sophisticated young professionals who know the secret of how to have a good time without all of the South Beach extras. "If everyone has a good time, then we've succeeded," said Angela Bagget, the manager of Martini Bar. "We definitely have a lot of regulars coming back week after week."

Martini Bar, Shops of Sunset Place, 5701 Sunset Dr, Miami; 305-665-3052. Flaunt starts at 10 p.m., the party gets going at 11p.m. and goes strong until 5 a.m. Women gain free entry all night while men shell out $10. Call ahead to get on the guest list or for table reservations

http://www.miami.com/one-night-stand-flaunt-martini-bar-article

Band of the hour: Raging Geisha

By Rayme Samuels

With the energy of rock, attitude of the streets and presentation of an intelligently composed pop act, Raging Geisha dish it up for an eager following in South Florida. The name conjures up images of a woman traditionally trained to be sexy and complacent, but instead takes that energy and rebels, ultimately taking control of her life and destiny. Having already played across the country, this group has found great success in pushing their unique beats.

The band members (Erica Sommer, lead vocals; Dave Siegel, bass; Jacin Nagao, guitar; Omar Tavarez, drums) have known each other for six years since meeting at the University of Miami. Dave and Erica reconnected a few years later in the music world, when they were both working on projects for Miami soundman Emilio Estefan. On his own, Dave has written and co-produced songs for artists like Christina Aguilera, Celine Dion, Jessica Simpson and Enrique Iglesias. Most recently, he co-wrote T.I.'s number 1 pop song on the Billboard charts, "Whatever You Like". Along with the other members of Raging Geisha, the hits keep on coming.

Referring to the group's front woman, Erica, Dave said, "Something that we hope people everywhere in general take away from our shows is the image of a confident, sexy woman -- not to mention one who is African-American -- leading a band of guys, channeling the energy of the band and the songs, not only inspiring everyone but hopefully even projecting a positive role model for women and women of color." Erica, who finds influence in powerful rock singers like Steven Tyler, Gwen Stefani and Shirley Manson, serves as the perfect vocalist for a band that inspiration in the likes of Rihanna and Beyonce with the rock energy of rockers like the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Van Halen.

Their song "Shoot" sounds like something you'd hear at any club on the Beach. It brings that perfect blend of party beats and sexy Miami flair. They recently released a ballad called "The Way That He Wants Me" on adult contemporary radio, which garnered a great response from listeners. For those who want even more, their album Memoirs of a Rager is available on iTunes.

Raging Geisha will perform at 10 p.m. on Friday, September 26th at Jazid, 1342 Washington Ave, Miami Beach. For more info, visit www.raginggeisha.com

http://www.miami.com/band-of-the-hour-raging-geisha-article

Band of the Hour: Bachaco

By Rayme Samuels

What do leafcutter ants found in the Amazon rainforest have in common with a hot six-member Latin alternative reggae band from Miami? Let's just say it's all in the name. Venezuelan Indians use the ant to create a picante or hot sauce. Bachaco (BAH-SHA-KO) like to consider themselves a musical picante comprised of hard working members.

A groovy clash of nationalities with members hailing from all over the Caribbean and South America, Bachaco is an attractive and motley crew: Eddy Morillo (vocals and cuatro, a four string guitar); Jose Morillo (vocals and bass); Domingo Medina (drums); Mathew Jacquette (vocals and guitar); Bruce McKinnon (vocals and trumpet); and Alejandro Hernandez (guitar). "Each member has influences coming from all over the place, from rock to reggae, from folk to hip-hop, and so on. "The combinations are endless," says Eddy, who founded the group a little over a year ago.

"Having a Colombian member, a Jamaican member and three Venezuelan members, and performing along with other guest members from Cuba and other places, gives us the ability to create a very diverse and rich musical experience," says Eddy. "Bruce has been influenced by genres like the Colombian Cumbia and even hip-hop in English due to the fact that he was born in the USA, so he plays the trumpet like a Colombian and raps like an American! Matt also helps out in the vocals doing his Jamaican Raggamuffin, an original Jamaican Rap style."

Songs like "Cumbia Pa' La Nena" and "Jamaican Cumbia" are infectious. They immediately make you want to get up and dance. In "El Inmigrante," Bachaco sings about the struggles of a migrant father who leaves everything, including his family, behind to try to make a living amidst inhumane treatment. Another slower and more melancholy track, "La Muerte," has had such an effect on listeners that at a recent concert they brought tears to the eyes of a fan.

Keep your eyes peeled for the release of their first album, scheduled for fall 2008. They've opened for Locos Por Juana, who are subsequently helping them put the album together. The band was even recently featured on MySpace's Latino music section as Latin/Reggae Band of the Week. To be this good at the beginning of their career bodes well for the future of this picante sextet.

Bachaco will perform at 10 p.m. Saturday, September 20th, at Transit Lounge; 729 SW 1st Ave, Miami. For more info, visit www.bachaco.net

http://www.miami.com/band-of-the-hour-bachaco-article