Quebec Scene

Afrodizz

The Afrodizz sound grew out of Nigerian 1970s Afrobeat, a mix of traditional African harmonies and rhythms with Afro-American soul, funk and jazz. Formed in 2002 by jazz guitarist Gabriel Aldama, this Montreal-based powerhouse has quickly become one of Canada's premiere Afrobeat outfits. Inspired by legendary Nigerian musician Fela Kuti, the group’s eight stellar musicians use their jazz experience to bring a modern urban touch to the foundation sound, including compositions by Fela Kuti and his son Femi.

Afrodizz plays regularly all over Montreal and across Canada, and audiences everywhere agree: this group will really move you—literally! Their live performances are bona fide dance floor burners.

Afrodizz is Vance Payne, vocals; Gabriel Aldama, guitar; Frédé Simard, tenor sax; François Glidden, baritone sax; David Carbonneau, trumpet; François Plante, bass; François Vincent, percussion; and Jean Philippe Goncalves, drums.

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Colectivo

In Mexico, a “colectivo” is the packed bus you wait for under a broiling sun. Even though it’s jammed with people and exploding with noise, it’s always a relief to climb aboard, and most of the time you even make it to your destination. “Colectivo” also means community spirit, the force that binds a group of people with shared values and ideals. “Colectivo” is a musical movement rooted in the social and political awareness of a community of artists. It’s the power of hope in the midst of hardship, the non-violent struggle to share the best and most beautiful. Colectivo is a call to action for youth, a plea for a just and free society. It’s the embodiment of social and musical currents in Quebec today, the voice of an open, progressive, committed and pacifist generation. It’s a unique gathering of 13 (or 15 or 17) musicians from some of Montreal’s best alternative bands—Overbass, Grimskunk, Redcore, Funkophones, BARF and more.

Energetic, colourful and rhythmical, a Colectivo concert is an instant Mexican fiesta! Audiences go crazy for the band’s irresistibly catchy tunes, and the powerful alchemy of charismatic lead duo Shantal Arroyo and Blacky will have you dancing the night away.