Duke Djembe and Afro-Cuban Ensembles with Africa Unplugged

Africa Unplugged is a dynamic ensemble of accomplished musicians that features traditional instruments of West Africa. Using these instruments they push the boundaries of music, while based in a tradition centuries old but also incorporating musical influences and experiences from places around the world. Africa Unplugged, formed in 2011 by Atiba Rorie, moves and connects modern audiences by melding ancient, West African instruments and musical traditions with contemporary global sounds. With Africa Unplugged, Blues, Funk, R&B, and Soul themes are given new life by the pulsing, pounding hands of a ferocious djembe and dunun section, while catchy guitar riffs, crooning vocals, and familiar grooves give the 21st century ear something it knows, loves, and won't soon forget. The band also enjoys educating audiences on the musical traditions and history of West Africa and also sharing their contemporary approach to using the instruments. The Duke Djembe and Afro-Cuban Ensembles are directed by Bradley Simmons.