THURSDAYS- Skirball Cultural Center
Join us for the return of our beloved Sunset Concerts at Skirball Cultural Center! A summertime music series that promises to bring joy and rhythm to your evenings! Doors open at 6:30 pm, so be sure to secure your spot!
TONIGHT’S PERFORMANCE
ANTIBALAS featuring DJ Linafornia
The musical collective known as Antibalas (Spanish for bullet-proof or anti-bullets) was conceived in Mexico City and formed in Brooklyn New York by Martín Perna in the fall of 1997. The early nucleus of the group was composed of Perna and later included several other members (Gabriel Roth, Michael Wagner, Del Stribling aka Binky Griptite, Victor Axelrod, Fernando Bugaloo Velez, Anda Szilagyi) from the Soul Providers / Dap Kings band. They performed their first show in May 1998 at St. Nick’s Pub in Harlem NY at a music and poetry night curated by artist Xaviera Simmons.
A few months into the group’s existence, Perna and Roth, on a walk through their southside Williamsburg neighborhood, met Amayo, who at the time owned a boutique / kung fu studio/arts space where he sold his own fashion designs, and held fashion shows. They invited Amayo, a native of Lagos and Afrobeat enthusiast, to see a show in the neighborhood. A few weeks later, they called again to ask him to fill in for a percussionist for a show at the Cooler (NYC) and he joined the band shortly thereafter. Within months he began composing and performing lyrics and over the next few years grew into the role of lead vocalist.
The nascent group spent its early months rehearsing and composing at Desco 41st street studios and later the first Daptone Studios at Amayo’s Afro Spot. Eschewing all commercial venues for the first year, they performed exclusively in alternative spaces in lofts, community markets, parks, and art spaces like Sara Roosevelt Park, Taller Latinoamericano, Brecht Forum, and the Angel Orensanz Center.
Celebrating its twenty-sixth season, this year’s Sunset Concerts showcase artists hailing from Jewish, African, and Cuban diasporas. Through their captivating performances, we explore the intertwining threads of music that connect us to the past and foster cultural unity, inspiring hope for a harmonious future.
To make the most of your evening, arrive early and indulge in delicious food, drinks, and shopping opportunities. You can also take the time to explore our fascinating exhibitions, adding depth to your cultural experience.
The best part? Admission to the concerts is absolutely FREE! However, for parking, there will be a nominal fee of $20 upon arrival, but you can avail of a discounted rate of $15 with advance purchase. Skirball Members can take advantage of an even lower rate of $5 with advance purchase. We encourage you to carpool, rideshare, or use public transportation like Metro to make your journey even more sustainable and enjoyable.
Come one, come all, and let the Sunset Concerts enchant you with melodies and rhythms that will stay with you long after the night ends!
