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Kajuneji is a seven-piece band with an alternative sound reminiscent of world music, R&B, funk, and what they tongue-in-cheek refer to as "harmonically reduced jazz," taking smooth compositions and expanding them beyond pop, all while remaining committed to the song. With lyrics shifting between English and Brazilian Portuguese and inspirations from all across the globe and decades, they create a timeless blend that feels both familiar and entirely new.
Formed in 2023, the group brings together musicians from Upstate New York, Asheville, Miami, and Rio de Janeiro. Drawing inspiration from artists like Banda Black Rio, The Headhunters, and Mahavishnu Orchestra, Kajuneji mixes R&B, funk, soul, jazz, rock, and world music into something both fresh and familiar. Their sound leans into deep grooves, layered textures, and improvisation—anchored by strong songwriting and a feel for the moment. Their growing repertoire includes original music and reimagined deep cut covers; all played with respect and intention.
The band is made up of Pablo Falbru with his gospel and soul background on vocals, and percussion. He shares the mic with Bruna Croce, coming in from the Brazilian jazz and bossa nova scene in Rio de Janeiro. Keanu Reedz brings Miami’s energy on saxophone and EWI, and James Eddington puts on a guitar master class, mixing gentle accents and tones or unleashing the power of electric guitar. Aaron Holland holds down the keys, with the ever-tight rhythm section of Joe Calabrese on drums & John Manion on the bass.
In 2024, Kajuneji shared stages with acts like Mavis Staples, Mokoomba, and Soule Monde (with members of Trey Anastasio Band), and performed at festivals including Grassroots and Drumstock. Their debut EP “in ink from the void” was recorded at Black Bear Studio in Ithaca and released in spring 2025, found on all online music streaming platforms. Kajuneji is preparing for a run of shows in late summer 2025.
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