Hamptons Jazz Fest continues its summer season with bassist and composer Santi Debriano and his dynamic ensemble, Bembé Arktet, on Friday, July 18, at 6 p.m. at The Church in Sag Harbor.
Panamanian-born and Brooklyn-raised, Debriano is a powerful force in Afro-Caribbean jazz, known for his work with legends like Archie Shepp, Randy Weston and Freddie Hubbard. With Bembé Arktet, he blends complex polyrhythms, folkloric melodies and modal improvisation into a vibrant sound that is both deeply spiritual and rhythmically propulsive.
The ensemble’s name draws from “bembé,” an Afro-Cuban sacred celebration of drumming and dance, which reflects the group’s mission: to connect audiences through cultural resonance and groove. Their performances are equal parts storytelling and sonic exploration, merging personal history and global influence into genre-defying jazz.
Bembé Arktet features some of today’s most daring improvisers, creating a collective sound that is celebratory, exploratory and rich in texture. Expect boundary-pushing originals and infectious rhythms rooted in Afro-Caribbean tradition but propelled by bold innovation.
Tickets are $30 for general admission, $25 for members and $15 for students and youth ages 8 to 18 and can be purchased at thechurchsagharbor.org. The Church is located at 48 Madison Street, Sag Harbor.
Staff Writer on Jul 4, 2025