Jackson Conti: rhythm rebels unite

Madlib (Credit: Stones Throw)

Los Angeles beat legend Madlib is famous for digging deep into dusty record crates to unearth long-lost gems and transform them into something new. His sonic obsession with classic Brazilian music and a chance trip to South America with filmmaker B+ have resulted in Jackson Conti; a collaboration with drummer Ivan Conti of Brazilian jazz-fusion stalwarts Azymuth. The resulting album, “Sunjinho,” finds Madlib mining the wealth of musical history Conti and his home country have to offer and crafting an extremely listenable collection of warm, laid-back tunes. Ranging from cool, quiet storm jams (“Papaia”) to freewheeling jazz workouts (“Upa Neguinho”) the album is a loving homage to the culture that birthed so many of Madlib’s most profound influences.

Azymuth headline what’s being billed as “a celebration of Jackson Conti,” with a performance from Madlib alter ego the Beat Konducta, alongside DJ sets from J. Rocc, B+ and Eric Coleman. To keep in the Brazilian tradition, dance troupe Samba Angels will be in the house, and there will be a special caipirinha  (the national drink of Brazil, you know) cocktail bar to keep the dance floor loose. Get there on the early side—this one’s gonna be large.

See Azymuth, Madlib, J. Rocc and the rest of the Stones Throw posse for “A Celebration of Jackson Conti” at the Echoplex on Sat., Aug. 16.

Scott T. Sterling is Music editor for Metromix Los Angeles.