Afro Chicken makes some noise

In the midst of the student music ensembles that call Luther college home, a new jazz combo is catching the attention of students. Afro Chicken is a group of Luther musicians that has been performing together since last year.

The ensemble consists of Jon Ailabouni (‘10) on trumpet, Adam Ragheb (‘10) on alto and soprano saxophone, Pete Russella (‘10) on guitar, Justin Nellis (‘10) on keyboard and Jeff Weston (‘09) on bass, with hopes to add a drummer.

The name Afro Chicken came about as a combination of the names of the first two songs the band played.

“The first songs we played were ‘Afro Blue’ and ‘The Chicken,’” said Ragheb. “These were the first songs that just clicked.”

The band came into existence because both Ailabouni and Ragheb wanted to get more playing time in a combo setting outside of Jazz Orchestra.

“We formed as a Jazz ensemble outside of Jazz Orchestra so Jon and Adam could work on technique,” said Weston. “It is Justin’s and my first Jazz combo. So it’s a combo of musicians with a variety of jazz experience.”

Afro Chicken chooses the music pieces they play but do not have any original scores to perform. Ailabouni is hopeful they will in the future. They are advised by Instructor in Music Tom Bourcier.

Afro Chicken’s recent performances include Homecoming’s Jazz Night, the Library Lawn and 30 Minutes on a Thursday with KWLC Radio.

Afro Chicken also performed last weekend at the Spring Prarie house and drew a crowd on the back lawn of the residence. The audience included a SPO Officer on rounds. They are planning an encore performance at the Spring Prarie House this coming weekend.

During performances, the group members put into practice the improvisational skills they have been striving to enhance in all of their ensembles, including their work in Afro Chicken.