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Look, this year sucked. We know. But next year doesn’t have to and you can start the year right with us at our next music showcase at the Luce Foundation Center in the Smithsonian’s American Art Museum on Friday, Jan. 27.
We’re extremely excited to feature two of D.C.’s finest: Feedel Band and Insect Factory.
Although Feedel Band officially formed six years ago, its members have been kicking around the D.C. music scene since the mid-’90s. And it’s safe to say there is no other band like Feedel Band in the District—or anywhere else in the country, for that matter. Its unique blend of Ethiopian jazz of the ’60s and ’70s with smooth, classic R&B grooves is intoxicating. On its first full-length album, which was released earlier this year, the group locks into a smooth groove with breezy vibes. The album, Ethiopian Ocean, features saxophonist Moges Habte, bassist Alemseged Kebede, pianist Araya Woldemichael, percussionist Mikias Abebayehu, guitarist Kaleb Temesgen, trombonist Ben Hall, and drummer Kenneth Joseph.
It’s a far cry from the sound of Insect Factory, the solo project of guitarist Jeff Barsky, but shares a similar sense of deep vibes. On Insect Factory’s newest album, Work, Barsky uses his guitar as a sound machine, channeling various plucks, pops, and other techniques through pedals and loops to create dense, droning soundscapes. It’s otherworldly, but nonetheless layered and gorgeous.
As usual, our Luce Foundation Center shows are free and all ages, and there will be a free beer tasting from a local brewery (along with a cash bar with other drinks and snacks.) It starts at 6 p.m. and goes until 8 p.m. RSVP here.