Loyal reader, if I were to ask you what kind of music you'd expect to hear at a Taste of Italy event, what would be your response? Perhaps I should put it another way. How many responses would you expend before you got to the answer "reggae"?

That's right. There is such a thing as an Italian reggae band and that band is playing the Taste of Italy in downtown L.A. Mama Marjas may not be from Jamaica, but it will definitely get you in the groove with some good vibes and reggae and a healthy amount of soul. And loyal reader, you know by now that I am all about rarity when it comes to music. That being the case, I just have to ask one question: "How often do you get to see an Italian reggae band...particularly in southern California? So you should definitely take advantage of this rare opportunity. Negritude by Mama Marjas Video: Negritude by Mama Marjas © 2012 Nokia© 2012 Microsoft Corporation Location: 424 N Main st, 90012 34.055934771895 ; -118.23987029493

The Taste of Italy is Saturday 13 October from 5 to 10 PM. Mama Marjas plays at 9. Tickets (includes six food tastes and four beverage tastes) for adults are $50. Tickets for children ages 5 to 12 are $20.