Discovering Red Baraat

What do Charles Mingus, beads, and Bhangra beats have in common? They are all close to my heart—very close. You know I love beads from my website and you know from my book Bead Riffs that I love jazz. But, did you know I love me some riotous, fun as hell world music, too?

Today I realized a missed brush with music grooving destiny when the Indian-American fusion get-down band known as Red Baraat came and went through my beloved hometown of Santa Cruz, California via Moe’s Alley last Friday. It wasn’t until this morning’s caffinating session while reading through a local rag I learned of the concert—and, of the band for that matter. You can bet I’ll seize on the next show like a beader on vintage crystal or Mingus on hard bop.

Listen On Amazon
CD Bootleg Bhangra samples here
CD Chaal Baby samples here

Who is Charles Mingus?
Where is Santa Cruz, California?
What is Bhangra?
What is beadwork?