Afro-Brazilian percussion in a big band format, Letieres Leite & Orkestra Rumpilezz combine traditional African-based rhythms with sophisticated jazz harmonies. Making its U.S. debut at Lincoln Center Out of Doors, the group will collaborate with critically acclaimed pianist Arturo O’Farrill and celebrated trumpeter Steven Bernstein, who are presenting original compositions to be arranged in the Rumpilezz style.
Cyro Baptista reveals another imaginative layer of Afro-Brazilian jazz fusion by integrating instruments he designs himself into his performances. His mastery of Brazilian percussion and jazz experimentation produces an utterly unique, unapologetic sound.
Forró in the Dark, a collective of New York-based Brazilian expats, presents a new take on the rural party music of Brazil’s northeastern states: forró. The Philadelphia Inquirer raves, “It’s polyrhythmic street-party music with a downtown edge.”