Gilfema Plus 2

Although their geographical roots are spread out on the map, one listen to Gilfema leaves the distinct impression that guitarist/vocalist Lionel Loueke (from Benin, West Africa), Hungarian drummer Ferenc Nemeth, and Swedish-Italian bassist Massimo Biolcati were destined to find one another. Gilfema has released just two albums -- the group's self-titled 2005 debut and now their new 2008 release Gilfema + 2, featuring the trio plus guest clarinetists Anat Cohen and John Ellis -- yet their recordings project a sense of intuitiveness in their interactions that more commonly result from decades of playing together. The band returns for a live performance and interview, along with John Ellis from the new album, as well as clarinetist Joris Roelof, ahead of their appearance this evening at the Regattabar.