With a wrecking-crew rhythm section, debonair vocals, and a guitar concoction that’s one part shred and two parts soul, it’s easy to understand why South Africa’s BLK JKS took music mega-gathering SXSW by storm last year. Now on its debut U.S. tour, the band shoots an African musical sensibility through the tenets of rock, electronic, and soul, reclaiming styles that have been stolen, watered down, and regurgitated for generations. BLK JKS’s fresh, forward rhythms, layered harmonies, elliptical guitar vernacular, and infectious urban Zulu mbaqanga blues combine in a swirl of experimentation and tribal energy. Catch the newest voice in African music’s 21st-century sound on this blistering opening night of the Cedar Cultural Center’s four-day Global Roots Festival. – (Walker Art Center, Buy Tix)

BLK JKS – “Molalatladi” (MP3)

The Cedar is truly a world renown room and will soon host the Global Roots Festival, featuring BLK JKS, Os Mutantes and more.. They will also make UK babies Micachu & The Shapes feel at home when they play tonight. Tickets are still available and will also be at the door. Doors open @ 7pm.

Micachu & The Shapes – Golden Phone (Mp3)

Dessa – Into The Spin (MP3)