Ring in the New Year with joyful Afrobeat performed by a legendary 9-piece ensemble! The group plays a large repertoire of material from all over Africa and beyond, plus similarly flavored originals. Includes sweet and savory snacks and a champagne toast at midnight!

AFRO-ZEN ALLSTARS is a 9-piece little big band featuring outstanding guitar work, a blazing horn section, driving rhythms and inspired instrumental jams. Birthed in Richmond, Virginia’s renowned music scene, this ensemble gives new life to an extensive repertoire of material from across the globe, and dominates similarly flavored originals. Their high energy live performances conjure an experience that’s as educational as it is entertaining. This is music for the mind, body and spirit and, with the goal of increasing the amount of joy in the world.

With a sound that’s both exotic and entrancing, the group’s rep is notable for powerful re-workings of material from Ethiopia’s “Golden Age” of music (1960’s and 1970’s), which highlight their recordings, "Greatest Hits" and "The Buzz and The Bells." Both have received widespread acclaim, including top ratings in the premier world music magazine, Songlines, and from music writer and Afropop Worldwide Editor, Banning Eyre.

Recognized for their outstanding interpretations of Ethiopian classics, and per the recommendation of French musicologist and Ethiopiques series founder, Francis Falceto, Afro-Zen had the incredible honor of performing in November of 2024 at the US retirement celebration of the great Ethiopian singer, Mahmoud Ahmed,

The Afro-Zen Allstars. Photo by Peter McElhinney.

Lineup: George M Lowe, guitar and arrangements; Keith Cable, percussion; Hunter Duke, percussion; Brian Cruse, bass; John Lilley, alto/tenor sax; Scott Milstead, drums; Chris Sclafani, alto/baritone sax; Chris Vasi, guitar; Toby Whitaker, trombone

With only 107 seats, shows at Révéler are intimate and immersive. A romantic venue with exquisite sound and dreamy vibes, Révéler offers a unique selection of cocktails, wines, beers, bubbles, and non-alcoholic beverages. This special NYE party includes sweet and savory snacks and complimentary champagne at midnight!