ASTRO (Anders Svanoe's Teleporting Rhythmic Orchestra) is a fearless large ensemble that pushes the boundaries of contemporary jazz. Featuring an all-star lineup of improvisers from Madison, Milwaukee, and Decorah, Iowa, the band navigates a thrilling spectrum, from adventurous free improvisation to groove-driven, accessible compositions by acclaimed baritone saxophonist and composer Anders Svanoe. Every performance is spontaneous, dynamic, and full of surprising musical turns.

Praised for its inventive writing and exceptional musicianship, ASTRO has drawn comparisons to the visionary spirit of Sun Ra while forging a sound entirely its own. Expect bold rhythms, rich textures, playful experimentation, and a powerful collective energy from one of the Midwest's most exciting creative jazz ensembles.

Presented by Global Impact Musicians, this special performance features outstanding emerging artists from East Africa participating in a residency at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. As part of a year-long professional development and leadership program, these musicians are recognized for their artistic excellence and commitment to creating meaningful impact in their communities. Blending diverse musical traditions with contemporary creativity, the ensemble offers an engaging evening of cross-cultural collaboration, artistic innovation, and musical exchange.

Free!

On Friday, 7/31, Cafe CODA welcomes Tani Diakite and Afrofunkstars, an ever-evolving ensemble rooted in the rich musical traditions of Wasulu, a region spanning the border of Mali and Guinea. Drawing from a diverse palette of West African rhythms and instruments, Tani Diakite captures the vibrant spirit of Wasulu music through infectious percussion, soulful vocals, and the bright tones of native stringed instruments. At the heart of the sound is the kamale n'goni, played by Tani himself, a West African lute often regarded as an ancestor of the banjo. Traditionally associated with Malian hunters, Wasulu music was believed to charm the spirits of the animals they pursued. Its deep musical lineage helped shape the foundations of blues and world music while foreshadowing genres such as bluegrass and folk.

The Afrofunkstars channel this heritage into performances that are both uplifting and deeply spiritual, inspiring audiences and fellow musicians alike. A defining feature of the band is its fluid lineup: each show brings together a unique mix of collaborators, singers, and instrumentalists, ensuring that no two performances are ever the same. That unpredictability is part of the magic of a live Afrofunkstars show; you never know what's coming next. One thing, however, is certain; before long, you will be swept up in the band's irresistible spirit, dancing, moving, and fully immersed in the groove.

🕖 Show at 7 pm

🎟️ $15

This show features rich, liquid flute and sax playing by Tom Gullion, smooth, solid bass by Mark Urness, fascinating drum rhythms by Dane Richeson, and sensitive, lively piano and organ by Doug White. This performance is free of charge. Freewill offerings are encouraged to help keep the music flowing. We hope you can join us at Cafe CODA!

Tom Gullion is a vibrant and innovative jazz saxophonist and flutist whose adventurous improvisations have earned him a global reputation as a creative jazz musician. His mastery of the saxophone and flute, combined with his passion for experimenting with musical genres and styles, has made him a sought-after performer and collaborator.

Tom has recorded and performed with some of the world’s most renowned jazz musicians. His live performances, both solo and with his band, have left audiences in awe, as he takes them on a journey of musical exploration.

Dane Richeson integrates the rhythms of jazz, rock, funk, classical, African, and Brazilian music into creative and intriguing improvisations. He has played with Bobby McFerrin, Gordon Stout, Gunther Schuller, Geoffrey Keezer, Joe Lovano, NDR Big Band of Germany, Roscoe Mitchell, Medeski-Martin-Woods, Kenny Wheeler, Danilo Perez, and Lyle Mays.

Mark Urness is widely sought as a master of jazz and classical bass. He teaches jazz at Lawrence University.

Doug White is a multi-genre keyboardist who has toured internationally and played in the Midwest jazz scene with Clyde Stubblefield, Les Thimmig, and Brian Lynch.

🎶 FRI, August 14

🕖 Show at 5pm

🎟️ Free

Ben Knox will lead on the sax and flute; Mark Siegenthaler will be on the piano; David Nuding will be behind the drums, with Jeff Weiss on bass.