Doors 7 PM // Music 8 PM
Ozomatli
Celebrating 30 Years
The Soundtrack of L.A.
Link to Ozomatli's Apple Music
If the city of Los Angeles had a soundtrack, it would be Ozomatli. Since their formation in 1995, the six-piece, multi-genre band has been a cultural force, blending Latin, hip-hop, funk, reggae, and global influences into an unmistakable sound that embodies the energy and diversity of LA. In 2025, Ozomatli celebrates an incredible milestone: 30 years of bringing their dynamic, genre-defying music to audiences around the world.
Emerging from the politically charged streets of Los Angeles, Ozomatli’s origins are steeped in activism and a desire to unite communities through music. This ethos has carried the band across three decades, earning them a dedicated global following and accolades that include three GRAMMY® Awards, four iconic performances at the Hollywood Bowl, a TED Talk, and countless sold-out shows worldwide. From high-profile TV appearances on The Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Austin City Limits to groundbreaking tours in places like Burma and Mongolia, Ozomatli’s music and message transcend borders, languages, and cultures.
The ensemble’s six founding members—Asdru Sierra (vocals, trumpet), Raul Pacheco (vocals, guitars), Uli Bella (saxophone, vocals), Wil-Dog Abers (bass), Jiro Yamaguchi (percussion), and Justin Poree (vocals, percussion)—have remained true to their mantra: "We take you around the world through the heartbeat of Los Angeles." Their music is a vibrant collision of styles, drawing from salsa, dancehall, cumbia, samba, funk, merengue, New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga, and Indian raga. This eclecticism is at the heart of their sound, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Ozomatli’s legacy extends far beyond their music. Known for their tireless community involvement, the band has used their platform to amplify causes that matter, from immigrant rights to education and beyond. Their ability to combine socially conscious lyrics with infectious grooves has made them a beacon of unity and resilience, a band that celebrates life while addressing the struggles that connect us all.
Their 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of longevity but also a testament to their enduring relevance and innovation. With a career that began with their groundbreaking 1998 self-titled debut, they continue to evolve and inspire. Whether performing new material or beloved classics, Ozomatli’s live shows remain a jubilant experience, igniting dance floors and uniting communities.
As they embark on their fourth decade, Ozomatli stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’ past, present, and future—a band whose music is as multifaceted and vibrant as the city they call home. Here’s to 30 years of Ozomatli, and the many more adventures yet to come.
ELENAH
David Saenz, known professionally as ELENAH, was born in Los Angeles, California, and raised by Ecuadorian parents. His early years were marked by a deep immersion in music, learning to play
drums, guitar, and sing from a young age. At 18, David moved to San Francisco California with a dream, to pursue a career in music as a singer-songwriter, producer, and audio engineer.
In January 2020, David launched his new project, "ELENAH," assembling a talented ensemble of musicians from the Bay Area, each hailing from different parts of Latin America. This diverse
cultural background is evident in their music, which is rich with a blend of influences and styles. Lyrically, ELENAH addresses global social, political, and ecological issues, as well as personal
relationships and love. The band primarily performs reggae music, but they also experiment with and fuse genres such as Boleros, punk, ska, cumbia, Latin jazz, and hip hop.
ELENAH has had the privilege of sharing the stage with legendary bands like Los Cafres and opening for artists such as Rawayana, Los Rakas, and Boostive. Currently, ELENAH is
promoting their debut EP, "Ayer Hoy & Mañana," a Bolero-reggae fusion that reimagines popular compositions from the past, all with the unique "ELENAH" sound.
"Ayer Hoy & Mañana" is more than just music—it's a call to connect with the past, live fully in the present, and look forward to a brighter future. Whether you're a longtime fan of Bolero and
reggae or a newcomer to these genres, this EP promises to touch your heart and move your soul.