FUSION NOMADS is a circle of bold performers that typically includes Tony Vacca on balafon, gongs and percussion; John Sheldon on electric and acoustic guitar; Charles Langford on saxophone; Chris Devine on electric violin, and Jo Sallins on electric bass, percussion and keyboard.
These players have travelled the world in the process of creating their respective worlds of music. Together they weave a legacy of tradition and innovation that is the future of where music can take them and us all. From Jazz, World Fusion, Funk and Blues to things we’ve never heard before… and so much more.
It’s all about how a world overflowing in music can all flow together. The music they create seems to be saying what we already know, and it’s that we are all connected.
“We are out to reveal the flow, the tapestry of rhythmic and melodic patterns that connects music’s ancient origins with all our music is becoming, and then takes us to places beyond where we’ve ever been. We’re well aware that we are swimming in miracle waters, and hoping to entice our audiences into this bold elixir. So yeah, come on out to our concerts and feel free to dive into the deep end of where all this just might take you.”
T H E B A N D :
Tony Vacca | John Sheldon | Charles Langford | Jo Sallins | Chris Devine
Every one of these players has a compelling story that became the pathway to a life in music.
FEES start at $2100. For booking inquiries contact:
Tony Vacca at World Rhythms Productions:
Phone/text: 413 658.5109. Email: tonyvacca@comcast.net.
Special Guests for concerts and for school programs:
We are blessed with a world-wide circle of longtime friends and collaborators who we often invite for special projects. First among them all is Massamba Diop, whose twenty-five year collaboration with Tony Vacca and the band is evident in every note he plays.
Massamba was born in Senegal, a country rich in musical heritage and cultural diversity. Growing up in a family deeply connected to the arts in community, Massamba was exposed to Senegal’s ever-evolving traditional music from a young age. He learned to play the tama, a traditional talking drum, which became his primary instrument and a medium through which he expressed his cultural identity.
In the late 1980s, Diop gained international recognition for his collaboration with renowned Senegalese musician Baaba Maal. Their partnership marked the beginning of a creative journey that has spanned over three decades. As a key member of Baaba Maal’s band, Massamba’s innovative drumming style and ability to blend traditional rhythms with contemporary sounds played a vital role in the evolution of West African music. Their work together produced several acclaimed albums and performances worldwide, bringing Senegalese music to a global audience.
In addition to his work with Baaba Maal, Massamba Diop’s talents have extended into the realm of music for film. He gained world wide acclaim for his contributions to the soundtracks of both of the Academy Award-winning films “Black Panther,” and “Wakanda Forver,” both directed by Ryan Coogler. His drumming added his uniquely ancient and contemporary African sound to the film, enhancing its cultural narrative and connecting audiences to the rhythms of the continent where our human story began. This achievement solidified his reputation as a versatile and sought-after master musician.
Massamba Diop is known for his dynamic drumming style, characterized by intricate rhythms, an energizing generosity of spirit, and a deep understanding of traditional Senegalese music. His performances are a celebration of African culture, often incorporating elements from various musical traditions. Diop has influenced a new generation of musicians, both in Senegal and beyond, encouraging them to explore and embrace their cultural roots while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music.
With a career spanning over three decades, Massamba Diop has left an indelible mark on the world music scene. As a performer, educator, and cultural ambassador, Diop continues to inspire musicians and audiences alike, ensuring that the rich traditions of his homeland are celebrated and preserved for future generations. He has collaborated with an international cast of artists that includes Herbie Hancock, Peter Gabriel, Afro-Celt Sound System, The Senegal-America Project, and Tony Vacca’s Fusion Nomads.
School Programs
In addition to their lifelong careers as world class performers and composers, all of these players have extensive teaching experience. They offer a truly unique combination of hands-on workshops that are the perfect compliment to what students will experience in their live performances.
School Programs usually consist of two or three simultaneous workshop sessions and a concert. Keep in mind that for each workshop session we can run three different workshops in different locations. If you have us do two workshop sessions and then two concerts, you and your students get a total of six workshops. And we love combining daytime school programs with an evening concert. You can invite the entire community.
Fees depend on your vision for this event. Let’s talk about it.