Putney, VT – The groove is coming to Putney this July as Next Stage Arts presents Armo and JMMR as part of the 2024 Bandwagon Summer Series, on Saturday, July 19 at 6:00 pm at the scenic Putney Inn Field, 57 Putney Landing Road.
An evening of high-energy Afrobeat and futuristic jazz awaits under the open sky, with tickets just $22 in advance, $25 at the door, and kids under 12 always free. Attendees are encouraged to bring a blanket or fold-up chair, enjoy local food from Smokin’ Bowls, and soak in a night of world-class music and community vibes.
Armo: Afrobeat Tradition with a Fresh Pulse
Armo brings a dynamic, danceable sound rooted in classic and contemporary Afrobeat. Formed by longtime members of the renowned band Antibalas, Armo’s musicians have collectively performed around the world with luminaries including David Byrne, Angelique Kidjo, Public Enemy, TV on the Radio, Sharon Jones & The Dap-Kings, and even the Tony Award-winning musical FELA!
Their lineup includes:
Jordan McLean – Trumpet, Percussion
Marcus Farrar – Percussion, Vocals
Nikhil P. Yerawadekar – Guitar, Keyboards
Kevin Raczka – Drums
Justin Kimmel
Dave “Smoota” Smith – Trombone, Keyboards
Whether reimagining music by Fela Kuti, Tony Allen, or The Art Ensemble of Chicago, or delivering original rhythm-based compositions, Armo crafts an intimate yet explosive live experience.
JMMR: Jazz Innovation for the 21st Century
Kicking off the evening is JMMR (Jordan McLean’s Musical Resistance), a new project redefining tempo-based jazz. Their debut album Resistance is Fertile drops this July on Nublu Records, showcasing a sound that fuses electronic textures with traditional jazz techniques.
JMMR features:
Jordan McLean – Trumpet, Percussion, Synthesizers
Dave “Smoota” Smith – Trombone, Synthesizers
Tony Jarvis – Bass Clarinet, Synthesizers
John Walter Bollinger – Drums & Cymbals
Expect music that feels both grounded and otherworldly—perfect for open ears and open minds.
About the Bandwagon Summer Series
The Bandwagon Summer Series is a family-friendly outdoor cultural performance series running from May through September, hosted by Next Stage Arts. Events take place in ballfields, farms, and parks across Putney, Brattleboro, and Bellows Falls, with a focus on showcasing a wide range of musical genres and global traditions.
Kids under 12 always get in free
A dedicated play area is available at every show
Refreshments are available onsite, including the return of the hugely popular Barr Hill cocktails
Food options at this show include Smokin’ Bowls, with appearances throughout the series by 802 Soul Kitchen and Putney General Store
Picnics welcome! Bring a blanket or chair and settle in for a night of rhythm, food, and fun
🎟️ Tickets and more info at nextstagearts.org
Whether you’re a longtime fan of Afrobeat or simply looking for a fun, family-friendly night out in southern Vermont, this is one concert you won’t want to miss.