AKABU Queens

The history of AKABU QUEENS (aka Akabu) spans over four decades. They made history by being the first all female band to take the stage at Reggae Sunsplash, Jamaica to a mesmerised audience.They have supported A-listers of the international reggae fraternity such as Mighty Diamonds, Burning Spear, Gregory Isaacs, Lee Scratch Perry, Toots and the Maytals, Aswad and Dennis Brown, to name but a few. Fast forward to the year 2000, and AKABU join forces with female musicians from south London based Abbakush to form SISTA Women In Reggae. The 13-strong group collaborated with Trilla Jenna, Sista Aisha, poet Jayzik and other invited guests. They joined forces with Italian artists, Ky Kah, Miss Mykela, Francisca Nesti, Mama Marjas of We Ladies Crew, to perform dates in Italy and the UK. AKABU, however, remained its own entity. These ladies play their instruments as though they were born with them, this is a nod to how tight they are. They hold crowds enraptured as they perform. Heavy on the drop and with a feminine touch.

CARMEN
With a voice that resonates with the depth of experience and emotion, Carmen is a rising star in the music scene, captivating audiences with her soulful melodies and mesmerizing performances. Born and raised in Leicester, England, with roots tracing back to Nicaragua, Carmen’s multicultural upbringing infuses her music with a rich tapestry of influences, seamlessly blending her Latin American heritage with her British roots.

EMBER & SENTIENT SOUND
Ember and Sentient Sound are a vibrant band born from the fertile music scene of Bristol. Lead by Ember, a soulful and rhythmical songstress with a deep message to spread, complimented by harmonies from vocalist Mae. Bringing delectable basslines alongside an afrobeat and hip-hop inspired rhythm section. Beautiful melodies and guitar licks that will hit the spot and make you quiver. Not one to miss if you want to get sassy and shake a tail feather!

Fri 5 July 2024
Tickets: £10 adv / £15 door
Standing
Time: Doors 7pm
Ages: 14+ (U18’s accompanied)

Access: We offer free Carer / Assistance tickets. Please contact the Guildhall Box Office (01452 503050) to book these.

Presented by Gloucester Guildhall & The Glos