Monte Carlo 76 Field Trip
Gomez Comes Alive and myself took a little band field trip to see Mulatu Astatke at the Luckman Fine Arts Complex as part of the Timeless Series. Astatke was backed by a great group of musicians including the legendary Bennie Maupin and a friend of mine from my days at CalArts, Todd Simon on trumpet and flugelhorn.
Fans of Mulatu and the essential Ethiopiques series were treated to two sets of music, both new pieces and classic Mulatu compositions. Opening the show were DJ sets by Egon, Quantic, and Cut Chemist. I saw a little of Egon and Cut Chemist and was pretty impressed by Cut Chemist’s set. Those of you who know me know that I never have really gotten excited about watching people spin records, but saw some of the appeal this time. Call me old fashioned.
Anyhow, I’d like to get GCA’s take on the evening too. Since it was a field trip he needs to submit his report!
Tags: Gomez Comes Alive, Jeremy Keller, Monte Carlo 76, Mulatu Astatke, Timeless