Afro Dead
AFRO DEAD is a musical collective (from Africa, Europe and the United States).
April Pittman (Lila Luz) - vocals
Aaron Feder (Alma Afrobeat Ensemble) - guitar and vocals
Josh Olken (Terrapin Flyer) - guitar
Drew Scalercio (Spies of the World) - keys
Janis Wallin (Family Groove Company) - bass
Andrew Elbert - djembe
Gordon Kay (Mhondoro Rhythm Success) - drums
Aaron Feder is guitarist, singer, and the founder/band leader for Afro Dead, as well as founder of Alma Afrobeat Ensemble and much more. Originally from Chicago, Aaron has lived in Barcelona for 17 years has been a lifelong participant in the Grateful Dead’s music scene, having played and recorded with members of Phil Lesh and Friends as well as with Grammy award winner Peter Rowan (who founded Old and in the Way with Jerry Garcia).
April Pittman is a multi-faceted singer and songwriter, best known for her intimate voice and vibrant stage persona. She gigs and records with local and international artists on a regular basis, including Tito Bonacera (bassist for Fatoumata Diawara), Afro Dead, and much more.
Josh Olken is lead guitarist for the nationally touring band Terrapin Flyer, and regularly hosts Wednesday nights at On Tour Brewing company, playing Grateful Dead music with a variety of top-notch musicians.
Drew Scalercio is a music producer and multi-instrumentalist based in Chicago, IL. Drew was born and raised in Pittsburgh, PA—“Steel City”—which shaped his musical artistry through performance opportunities in orchestras, jazz bands, broadway pits, gospel bands, rock keyboard chairs and at the salsa piano. He also studied at the prestigious Indiana University jazz department and then on to a life as a Chicago session musician & music producer. Drew’s work has been featured on Adult Swim, MTV, BET, and with top international producers Kevin Saunderson & D.A. Got That Dope.
Janis Wallin is an electric bassist from Chicago, IL who is most known for her deep pocket, infectious on-stage enthusiasm, and versatility of styles. Janis has over 2 decades of experience performing, touring, writing, arranging, and teaching. Nicknamed "The Mistress of Groove" by Grammy-award-winning bassist, Victor Wooten, Janis is well versed in all styles, from rock to funk to jazz to blues to soul to Latin and more, and brings her signature rock-solid foundation to whatever realm she is in.
Gordon Kay has studied, performed and taught West African drumming for almost 30 years, and has played in Afropop groups such as Mhondoro Rhythm Success and much more.
Andrew Elbert is one of the leading djembe players in Chicago plays in many dance classes as well. He also specializes in drum set and marching band, and performs with rock bands, percussion ensembles, and dance companies all around the Chicago area.
