Hometown Sounds

Afropop band Elikeh embodies the global cultural diversity that makes DC such an interesting place for music. Frontman Massama Dogo comes from Togo and has performed with many bands, both local and worldwide (Sierra Leone’s Refugee All Stars, The Wailers, Vieux Farka Toure, Bombino). Elikeh’s 2012 album Between 2 Worlds appeared in more than a few top albums lists last year, and they’ve recently appeared at the Howard Theater, the Black Cat and the Strathmore. This Saturday night they headline a Global Dance Party at Rosslyn’s Artisphere, with top-notch opening sets from reggae/funk band Nappy Riddem and gypsy horn ensemble Black Masala. This is going to be an amazing night of world music!
Now look DC, I worked in Rosslyn for years and I know that it’s a bit of an odd place to go on a Saturday night. The Artisphere is a great space with some bold programming choices and an expansive dance floor. There’s a Metro station close by, and did you know that the Artisphere offers FREE validated parking on weekends? Yup, that’s right, FREE! No way you’re getting that on U Street or H Street NE. Also I hear the fine folks at ridesharing app SideCarDC are offering free rides this weekend! The $12 show kicks off at 8 PM in the Artisphere’s ballroom.
For today’s DC music video of the day, here’s the latest from Elikeh, No Vision. From their 2012 album Between 2 Worlds, the video was shot by singer Dogo’s younger brother Edouard Zucker.

Tonight the Black Cat hosts a veritable world tour of local bands. Openers The Chariots bring an island reggae/ska vibe, Alma Tropicália pays tribute to 60s Brazilian music, and headliner Elikeh plays Afropop from Togo and Mali. They’re celebrating their first album release in 2 years, called Between 2 Worlds. Here’s the video from their song Madjo, from their 2010 release Adje!Adje! See you at the show tonight!