The Strides play Fela Kuti: The Spirit of Afrobeat

Roots-afro-reggae act The Strides expand their group for an electrifying night of Afro-Beat as they pay homage to the immortal Fela Kuti. Come and witness this worldwide resurgence in Fela’s music – from the streets of Lagos, to the new broadway hit Fela and the brilliant new Alex Gibney documentary Finding Fela (screened at this year’s Sydney Film Festival), and now to Sydney’s Basement. Prepare to hit the dancefloor in what will be one of the year’s most unforgettable nights!

The Strides and Special Guests Vocalists pay homage to the father of Afrobeat, the Nigerian singer, saxophonist and political activist, Fela Kuti. With his infectious mix of african dance music and James Brown style funk, the music will have you dancing from the first down beat.

The Strides have forged a truly global sound melding a diversity of cultures and instrumentation under the one universal consciousness. With two acclaimed albums already under their belt, a European label signing, festival appearances across the country and having graced the stage with the likes of Julian Marley, Tony Allen and Groundation, The Strides have developed a reputation for their powerful live shows.

Special guests will include hand-picked vocalists and MCs from Sydney’s diverse musical scene – Soul Divas, Hip-Hop MCs and African Singers + Afro Moses. Like any good Afro-Beat party the grooves will come non stop with DJ’s Huwston and Sam Z mixing it up to keep the dancefloor shaking.

Musicians:

The Strides

Ras Roni – vocals
Ltl Gzeus – vocals

Nick Garbett – trumpet
Jeremy Rose – tenor saxophone
Matt Keegan – baritone saxophone
Carlos Adura – drums
Arne Hanna – guitar
Dave Rodriguez – guitar
Shannon Stitt – keys
Rory Brown – bass
Sandro Bueno – percussion
Sibo Bangoura – percussion

with Afro Moses – vocals
Meklit Kebrit – vocals
Mariam Sawires – vocals