Mr. Something Something: Afrobeat with a message

Deep African beats and environmental activism make a special appearance in Potsdam this week. Toronto-based band Mr. Something Something is playing at La Casbah Moroccan restaurant Thursday night at 8:30 pm. The band's music is rooted in Afrobeat. It's a style created by the legendary musician and political activist Fela Kuti of Nigeria. It features lots of drums playing hypnotic grooves, horns punctuating phrases, and lyrics with a message. The band describes its music as "the soundtrack to a joyful revolution." Mr. Something Something was co-founded by John McLean, who's actually a Potsdam native. He hasn't been here since he was little, and he told David Sommerstein he’s excited to return. McLean says he and childhood friend Larry Graves have played together since they were in first grade. Advance tickets are $8, $10 at the door. You can get yours by calling 315-274-9696 or e-mailing derekmaus@gmail.com.