On May 6, pianist and composer Arturo O’Farrill released The Offense of the Drum (Motéma), an ambitious new recording that spotlights percussion from almost every corner of the world, featuring 28 different types of drums. The album examines the role of the drum as a vehicle for resistance and liberation, and offers a musical commentary reflecting the idea that the drum is politically charged as a means for change.
The Offense of the Drum features special guest artists Vijay Iyer, DJ Logic, Edmar Castañeda, Donald Harrison, Pablo Mayor, Miguel Blanco, Antonio Lizana, Jason Lindner, Christopher “Chilo” Cajigas and others, who bring to the recording the music of New York City, Spain, Colombia, Cuba and New Orleans.
JazzTimes is pleased to present an exclusive first look at the newly released video for “They Came,” a highlight from The Offense of the Drum. “They Came” showcases DJ Logic and emerging spoken word artist/rapper Christopher “Chilo” Cajigas along with O’Farrill’s Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra. The composition chronicles the contributions made by Puerto Ricans to American culture and pays special attention to the Nuyorican culture.
Play the video:
Also, please feel free to watch the EPK for The Offense of the Drum, via You Tube.
