150 Million Gold Francs is an elegy for Haiti's dire past as well as a hopeful vision for the country's future, and an homage to it's unstoppably optimistic people. Oben Calvaire is one of the finest drummers of his generation, whose current credits include Wynton Marsalis' Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Dave Holland, Sean Jones and other luminaries. Joining Calvaire on his journey is a unique assemblage of mostly Haitian and Haitian-American musicians.
"150 Million Gold Francs" is a captivating CD release by acclaimed drummer and composer Obed Calvaire, presented by the innovative label Ropeadope. This album showcases Calvaire's exceptional artistry, blending jazz traditions with contemporary influences to create a dynamic listening experience. Known for his intricate rhythms and expressive compositions, Calvaire brings together an ensemble of top-tier musicians who deliver performances full of energy and nuance. The tracks traverse vibrant soundscapes, reflecting both personal stories and broader cultural themes.
Obed Calvaire has established himself as one of the leading drummers in modern jazz, collaborating with luminaries such as Wynton Marsalis, Dave Holland, Monty Alexander, and the SFJAZZ Collective. His versatility spans genres from straight-ahead jazz to Afro-Caribbean music. With "150 Million Gold Francs," he continues to push creative boundaries while honoring his roots.
Ropeadope is renowned for its commitment to artistic innovation across genres like jazz, soul, hip-hop, and world music. Since its founding in 1999 in Philadelphia, Ropeadope has supported groundbreaking artists including Snarky Puppy and Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah. Their releases are celebrated for quality production values and fostering musical exploration.