The Postcards From Zambia are a polyrhythmic fusion of modal jazz and traditional percussion music from various Zambian cultures. Though the group draws inspiration from all over this central African country, their repertoire is especially focused on Luvale and related music from Zambia’s northwest. The Postcards recreate a traditional ngoma ensemble through the orchestration, improvisation, and arranging tendencies of jazz. Percussionist Jason Winikoff and drummer Chris Blaber recreate the tightly interlocking rhythmic foundation while Feven Kidane (trumpet), Dean Thiessen (piano), and Noah Gotfrit (bass) fill the roles of an antiphonal choir. The result is an energetic, grooving, joyful, and powerful musical meditation that can be enjoyed from the contemplative comfort of your seat or the dancefloor. Arranger and ethnomusicologist Dr. Jason Winikoff has spent years studying under, performing alongside, and working with elite Zambian dance troupes such as Lenga Navo, Likumbi Lya Mize Chibolya, and Chota. He is a student of the renowned cultural custodians Kapalu Lizambo, Josephine Sombo Muzala Chipango, and William Vunda as well as a proud partner of the Likumbi Lya Mize Cultural Association. He is honored to bring a slice of Luvale culture to Vancouver with the help of this scene’s most creative and sensitive musicians.