PHOENIX AFROBEAT ORCHESTRA [PAO!] proudly carries the musical and social torch that was first lit by the powerful duo of FELA KUTI and TONY ALLEN, original inventors of the Afrobeat sound in Lagos, Nigeria in West Africa. Led by funky heiress Camille Sledge the 16-strong orchestra is composed of the most ambitious and outrageous musicians in Phoenix today – making it the hottest super-group on the Hot City scene!
Beginning with a strict repertoire comprised of classic Afrobeat music, PAO! has now penned an abundance of original material that melds the eclectic heritage of the ensemble with that classic Afrobeat style. The outcome is a truly powerful sound that pays homage to the masters while maintaining a fierce individuality, acting as a loud voice-piece of solidarity and understanding for the global community. In 2023, the band will find themselves releasing and supporting their 3rd studio record "The Times" as well as more new music that has been crafted during this time of prolific societal unrest.
From concert hall to music festival, fashion show to fundraiser, PAO! has shared the stage with such musical icons as George Clinton and The Roots, as well as lesser-known masters including Bombino, Vieux Farka Touré, Sierra Leone's Refugee All Stars, Orgone, Dengue Fever, Turkuaz, Sudan Archives, The Dip, and Los Esplifs.
“PAO packs a knockout sonic punch that makes the listener stumble back in awe...before shaking some booty.”
“The video rides a pulsing groove from the opening frames to the last, and for every second the group plays with a formidable tightness and feel.”
“ The band brings together a diverse and seriously talented group of musicians from around town. They have joined forces to showcase the Afrobeat sound, which weaves together jazz, funk, percussion, and chant-style vocals. Together, their union has created a force that showcases precision, skill, and soulful sincerity. ”
“Phoenix Afrobeat Orchestra combines a global sound with a long roster of musical heavy-hitters for a big band effect that shakes the walls as it enlivens the soul.”
“On stage, the band is a commanding force. The singers sway in unison and the horn quartet hits all their notes in unison. They make up everything that an orchestra should: strong as individuals, yet selfless in allowing the band to speak as a whole.”
“ In part I love PAO because they inspire me to dance, not all bands do. But I also appreciate the beautiful music that this large group of experienced musicians make together. It’s not like a typical band, it is an Afrobeat Orchestra. I highly recommend you check out one of their shows as soon as humanly possible, and as I always say, please come dressed to drip sweat on the floor.”
PAO Role Call:
Camille Sledge (Vocals, Leader of Rituals)
Andria Bunnell (Vocals)
Chanel Bragg (Vocals)
Mitch Freedom (Vocals)
Aldy Montufar (Trumpet/Music Director)
Dan Allen (Baritone Saxophone)
Jeff Jones (Tenor Saxophone)
David Marquez (Bass/Founder)
Gabriel Velez (Guitar)
Illya Riske (Guitar)
Zach 'Yojimbo Billions' Vogt (Keyboard)
Daniel Ybarra (Drum Kit)
Dave Cosme (Percussion)
Scott White (Congas/Percussion)