La Misa Negra is one reason why Oakland maintains its vaunted reputation as a proving ground for new sounds. Steeped in cumbia but inspired by the Afro-Caribbean rhythmic continuum, this seven-piece combo brings the compressed energy of punk rock and the call-and-response cadences of hip hop to the Latin music dance floor.

Founded in 2011 by composer, guitarist, and accordion player Marco Polo Santiago, the band features the charismatic vocals of Colombian-born Diana Trujillo, saxophonists Justin Chin and Morgan Nilsen, bassist/percussionist Paul Martin Sounder, and percussionists Craig Bravo and Elena de Troya. Powered by surging saxophone riffs, churning percussion, and righteous accordion lines, the band’s combustible performances and infectious grooves have earned a diverse array fans at festivals and concert halls around the country.

Hear them in a free concert this weekend at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival.

Watch some videos of their music on ther website.

Saturday, September 28th from 1 to 2:30 PM
At the Esplanade at Yerba Buena Gardens
Mission St. between 3rd & 4th Streets in San Francisco