Conceived by Ethio-American saxophonist D.A. Mekonnen––cofounder/leader of the widely celebrated Debo Band—the solo project dragonchild is a culmination of decades of musical experimentation, embodied spiritual practice, and critical thinking. Growing up in Texas as a first generation Ethiopian-American, Mekonnen often heard traditional Ethiopian instruments and vocals, later seeking out master Ethiopian musicians to learn to play the traditional instruments of his heritage. The groundbreaking Debo Band combined those influences with American jazz, soul, and funk through the instrumentation of Eastern European brass bands. dragonchild represents the next phase of Mekonnen’s musical journey.

Sunken Cages is the moniker of Indian-born drummer/electronic music producer Ravish Momin, originally an acoustic drummer/percussionist who has worked with a wide array of musicians, from pop-star Shakira to legendary jazz musician Kalaparusha Maurice McIntyre, to to leading his own innovative global groups Tarana and Turning Jewels Into Water on international stages for the past 15 years.

Together, dragonchild x Sunken Cages create an exciting new global music that draws from their respective cultural backgrounds as well as contemporary electronic music. Sunken Cages plays electronic and acoustic drums, triggers textures and generates loops in real-time, while dragonchild shifts between saxophones and electronics.

Savan DePaul (they/them, she/her, dey/dem), who also goes by the future pop moniker Ishtar Sr., is a rapper, singer, producer, engineer, and visual artist living in West Philadelphia. DePaul's music encompasses many styles, from abstract hip hop polemics to futuristic R&B experiences to dance pop anthems. Her music carries an Afrofuturistic bend and nestles various odes to Blackness, sexual autonomy, queer acceptance, and self reflection. More Info: SavanIshtar

Contact the host of dragonchild x Sunken Cages + Savan DePaul