Propulsive rhythms and complex drumming are the hallmarks of the 7-piece Boston-based Brass ensemble Kotoko Brass, set to return to Henniker for the third year as the 2023 Henniker Concert Series continues on Tuesday evening, Aug. 22, at 6:30 p.m., at the Angela Robinson Bandstand, Community Park. For two summers in a row, they have been the second highest rated band at the summer series.
Inspired by the traditional drum rhythms of Ghana, Kotoko Brass has created a unique, joyful, and improvisational style of West African dance music described by the Boston Globe as “propulsive, infectious party music”. The drums provide the heart and soul of Kotoko Brass — merging syncopated African percussion polyrhythms with hard-hitting dance grooves on the drum set. The horns blend traditional sounds of New Orleans with the famous West African brass band sound heard from Ghana to Nigeria, and the guitar, keys, and bass evoke classic African and Caribbean styles of highlife, afrobeat, and reggae. Kotoko Brass features musicians from Ghana, Antigua, Japan, and the United States playing together in unity.
Massachusetts brothers Ben and Brian Paulding form the nucleus of this group. At its core, Kotoko Brass music is a celebration of tradition, diversity, and unity.
All concerts are free (although donations are welcome), and should there be inclement weather, the concert will move indoors to the adjacent Community Center. More information can be found on their Facebook page: facebook.com/HennikerConcert or the town’s website: henniker.org.