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The Arts Intel Report

A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler
A Cultural Compass
For the World Traveler

Jupiter & Okwess and Cha Wa

August 17, 2019
1040 Mass MoCA Way, North Adams, MA 01247, USA

End of August weather blankets summer in tragic lethargy. Groove away the stifling heat at MASS MoCA. First, Jupiter & Okwess bring their inventive blend of Afropop, traditional Congolese tempos, and Western rock. If you miss them, Cha Wa arrives soon after. Bass-heavy funk beats meet sousaphone and Bayou jazzy vocals. Cha Wa is a psychedelic blend, part New Orlean’s Mardi Gras, part India’s Holi. Two sonic salutes to summer. —C.J.F.