Press Kit

The Lost Tribe is a collective of musicians that research, remix and redefine the musical traditions of the African Diaspora. Led by drummer and percussionist Jocelyn Pleasant, their sound winds through many genres that are rooted in West African rhythms and sensibilities. The group was started to provide a platform for musicians of different but overlapping communities to come together – with the drum as the leading instrument in performance and compositional contexts. Specifically, the Lost Tribe’s sound blends jembe music with African Diasporic genres like jazz, funk, rock, reggae and hip hop.

Connecticut roots are vital to the sound and direction of the group but each member also brings their own flavor and cultural background to the music. Song arrangements are fluid, and each musician is encouraged to bring their personality to the forefront. This mixture of energies creates a unique blend that is palpable to audiences, inviting participation and a sense of joy. Each performance tells a story – building on a rhythmic foundation, expanding into a variety of sonic directions, weaving in lyrics and poetry with themes of Black culture and identity. Regardless of the lineup, the staples of a Tribe performance are energy, stage presence, and GROOVE.