You’ve heard this before, but the whimsically named Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is really tough to describe. Veering from in-your-face, jaw dropping chops and passion, to those quiet moments when the background noise disappears and you hold your breath to take in a soundscape of solitude, the power trio of electric bass (E'Lon JD), drums (Maison Guidry), and steel pans (Jonathan Scales) combines elements of jazz, classical, and progressive rock, peppered with Latin rhythms and soulful outbursts of funk. From club and festival stages across North America and Europe, and tours of Africa, Southeast and Central Asia as a Cultural Ambassador for the US Department of State, to their NPR Tiny Desk Concert featuring Béla Fleck, the Fourchestra’s live shows make even the most jaded listeners forget where they are… even if just for a precious moment.

This may seem an odd thing to say, but on the verge of releasing their eighth studio recording, Jonathan Scales Fourchestra is only now truly embracing their identity as a group. For many years, Jonathan’s live band was a fluid lineup of top-notch musicians, and even included an “all-star” version with bassist MonoNeon (Prince, Nas), drummer Sput Searight (Snarky Puppy, Snoop Dogg) and percussionist Weedie Braimah (Trombone Shorty, Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah), as well as a number of other marquee players. Now, however, the Fourchestra is a decidedly indivisible band, and Jonathan is writing for the trio, not just the pans.

LEAF Kono Band is a dynamic musical collective based in Asheville, North Carolina, formed by teaching artists affiliated with LEAF Global Arts. The ensemble is dedicated to celebrating and preserving traditional West African music, particularly the rich rhythms and melodies of Guinea's Kono region, while seamlessly integrating influences from blues, soul, and funk to create a unique and engaging sound.​

The band's lineup features a diverse group of accomplished musicians, including Adama Dembele, a 33rd-generation master djembe player from Ivory Coast; Andre Lassalle, a skilled guitarist with extensive performance experience; Lenny Pettinelli, a versatile keyboardist known for his contributions to the Asheville music scene; Melissa McKinney, an international blues star and LEAF resident teaching artist; her daughter McKinney, a powerhouse vocalist and bassist; and Derian Blane, a talented vocalist and LEAF teaching artist. 

LEAF Kono Band has graced various stages, including opening for Tito Puente Jr. at Asheville's Downtown After 5 concert series, showcasing their ability to blend traditional African sounds with contemporary influences.  They have also been featured at LEAF Global Arts events, reflecting their commitment to cultural preservation and education. ​

Through their vibrant performances, LEAF Kono Band continues to enrich Asheville's cultural landscape, offering audiences an immersive experience that bridges continents and connects communities.​