February 13, 2007                                 

“DIFFERENT INSTRUMENTS BUT ONE RHYTHM,
TOGETHER WE CAN MAKE A PROSPEROUS NEPAL”
GRAMMY AWARD WINNING BAND “OZOMATLI” TO PERFORM IN FREE CONCERT IN KATHMANDU

Saturday, February 17, 2:00pm at Khula Manch, Ratna Park

The two-time Grammy Award-winning band from Los Angeles, “Ozomatli,” will perform on Saturday, February 17 in Kathmandu.  This 9-member American band, known for both a unique urban sound and dedication to addressing social issues, will perform a free concert to promote peace and understanding through diversity in music throughout the world.  Ozomatli is a multi-ethnic, multi-racial Latin hip-hop band -- a living example that music can transcend any cultural or social boundary. 

The concert is at Khula Manch in Ratna Park on February 17, at 2:00 in the afternoon.  Gates will open at 12:00 noon.  Nepali rock band Robin and the New Revolution will open the concert. Formed in 2004, Robin and the New Revolution also combine different musical styles (funk, blues, slow rock and folk tunes) and sing about patriotism and current social issues.  Both Robin and the New Revolution and Ozomatli believe that diversity is a strong foundation on which to build peace and understanding.

Ozomatli is touring India and Nepal this month for the first time in its 12-year history under the auspices of the American Centers in New Delhi and Kathmandu, and USAID/Nepal.  In Kathmandu, Ozomatli will perform on Saturday, February 17 with the message of “different instruments but one rhythm, together we can make a prosperous Nepal.”  Ozomatli is living proof that diverse backgrounds make a stronger and more prosperous whole.  Ozomatli’s nine members are committed to addressing social issues of local, national and international importance and they use the power of their own diversity to achieve this.  The songs and messages Ozomatli creates combine different languages, ethnic and cultural backgrounds, musical genres and instruments. 

Ozomatli’s approach to music and its social messages are especially relevant in the current political climate in Nepal.  Using music as a positive outlet to reach a wide audience, Ozomatli is an inspiration for youth in America, in Nepal, and throughout the world.

Ozomatli are:
Ulises Bella, Tenor Sax, Clarinet, Vocals
Wil-Dog Abers, Bass, Vocals
Raul Pacheco, Guitar, Lead Vocals
Justin Porée, Percussion, MC, vocals
Asdru Sierra, Trumpet, Lead Vocals
Jiro Yamaguchi, Percussion
Jabu Smith-Freeman, MC
Mario Calire, Drums
Shef Bruton, Trombone