globalFEST 2013: Ten Years of Moving International Sounds from the Margins to the Mainstream

Ten years and a world of difference. From the tense atmosphere following 9-11 that sparked globalFEST, to tents bursting with open-minded music fans at some of the biggest indie music festivals, this annual January festival-turned-non-profit arts organization has moved the needle, helping to bring global sounds from the margins to center stage. What started as a response to the sometimes risk-averse performing arts scene has opened major venues and festivals to international artists with deep roots and modern sensibilities.

Founded by some of the United States’ most informed and engaged global music presenters, gF is co-led by a trio of dedicated volunteer producers/curators: Bill Bragin of Acidophilus: Live & Active Cultures, Isabel Soffer of Live Sounds, and Shanta Thake of Joe’s Pub at the Public. globalFEST celebrates its 10th year on January 13, 2013 at NYC’s Webster Hall (125 East 11th Street), with a dozen vibrant acts from across the world and the sonic spectrum. French Produced Artists Featured

Christine Salem (US debut): One of the few female voices of Maloya, a traditional music of the island of Réunion, the rebellious Christine Salem is an extraordinary artist with a unique path. Accompanied by a kayanm, a percussion instrument made from sugar cane flower stems and seeds central to Maloya music, she sings in Creole, Malagasy, Comorian, or Swahili, blending music from the Indian Ocean and African rhythms. More

Fatoumata Diawara: With an intense but gentle stage presence and catchy, lilting songs, Diawara is the latest strong female Wassalou voice to emerge from Mali’s diverse, lively music scene. More

Lo’Jo: Polyglot pioneers of border-defying music from elsewhere and everywhere, the French band synthesizes powerful grooves, delightful vocals, Gallic soul, and influences that range from the Saharan nomad blues of the Tuareg to Balkan beats. More

Stephane Wrembel and His Band: Wrembel’s wry, skillful interpretation of the jazz manouche guitar sound, first made famous by Django Reinhardt, has caught the ears of Woody Allen (who used Wrembel’s work in Vicky Cristina Barcelona and Midnight in Paris). His five-piece band summons up the glorious, swinging, bittersweet spirit of Gypsy jazz. More

Date: Jan 13, 2013 Time: 7:00 pm Place: Webster Hall, 125 E. 11th St., New York, NY