I WAS THERE . . . Akoya Afrobeat Ensemble at S.O.B.’s 2/29/08

Akoya, one of New York’s premier Afrobeat ensembles, proved they are as good as anybody on the scene last Thursday night at S.O.B.’s with the release party for their new album, President Dey Pass. The night featured Akoya’s own diverse mix of talented musicians from all over the world, along with superstar guest musicians including Cedric “Im” Brooks of the Skatalites, Amayo, Marcos Garcia, and Eric Biondo of Antibalas, Jared Tankel of Budos Band, Paula Henderson of Moisturizer, and Dj Rich Medina on the 1’s and 2’s. Akoya is a 13-piece Afrobeat band based in New York with members from Benin, Panama, Ghana, South Africa, the U.S. and Japan. The lead singer, Kaleta, toured and recorded with Fela Anikulapo Kuti and Egypt 80 for ten years. What sets Akoya apart is their versatility. A force to be reckoned with, they give Antibalas competition as the hottest Afrobeat band on the East Coast.
–Marc Amigone

The Daily Shortlist March 6

Back From Hiatus, Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds. Photo Credit: Steve Gullick

Location: Midtown West, NYC
Event: 2008 Plug Awards with Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds + St. Vincent + Dizzee Rascal + José González
Venue: Terminal 5
Food: Eatery
Drink: Valhalla
Miscellaneous: Central Park

Terminal 5 hosts the 2008 Plug Awards for indie-music and though this is not the best venue to see shows, it’s hard to pass this up as comedian Patton Oswald hosts and performers include Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds, St. Vincent, Dizzee Rascal, and Jose Gonzalez. Nearby and delicious, Eatery offers a new American menu that’s asian influenced. Try the Red Curry Chicken Breast over roti pancake, with baby carrots and red curry coconut sauce ($16.95). Valhalla’s minimalist space is chill, letting the 24 brands of beer from all over the world on tap be the main attraction at this bar. While its warm out, waste a little time walking through Central Park, relax, and get out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Just watch your step. The working horses tend to leave surprises behind them!