The American Embassy in Colombo and Jazz at Lincoln Center will present American soul and hip hop artistes The Maya Azucena Band at two shows titled "The Rhythm Road" in Sri Lanka.

Performance dates are Monday, April 28th at 6 pm at the Town Hall in Galle, and Wednesday, April 30th at 6.30 pm at the New Town Hall in Colombo 7. Entrance to both shows is free.

Passes for the Colombo show can be picked up from the American Center, 44 Galle Road, Colombo 3 or at the performance – on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information contact The American Center at 249-8100.

With musical influences ranging from Earth Wind & Fire to Ella Fitzgerald, the MAYA AZUCENA band bridges the genres of soul, hip-hop, world and funk music. Through their "raw soul" sound and progressive lyrics, the band seeks to uplift communities worldwide. Best known for riveting tracks and spirited live performances, Azucena and her band recently released their album, Junkyard Jewel, to wide acclaim.

The Rhythm Road: American Music Abroad program is a partnership between Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC) and the U.S. Department of State. The program is designed to foster cultural exchange with audiences worldwide. This season, 6 jazz quartets and 4 urban music ensembles will tour regions such as Africa, Asia, Europe, Latin America, and the Middle East. International activities include public concerts, master classes, lecture-recitals, workshops, jam sessions, media outreach, and collaborations with local musicians.

This dynamic group of musicians will hold workshops and master classes for young Sri Lankan musicians in both Galle and Colombo, sharing their musical abilities and experience of the music business.

Maya Azucena (Vocalist), is a Brooklyn native, sees her music as a voice of and for the people. She was recently named Best Alternative Artist of the Year by Allhiphop.com and nominated by soultracks.com as Best Female Vocalist of the Year.

Ivan Katz (Drums), a Manhattan native, has been playing drums for 20 years and specializes in soul, hip-hop, reggae and dance beats. Katz's unique style results from immersion in the sounds and vibrations of New York City.

Bruce Mack (keyboards) is a multi-instrumentalist and educator working in the genres of R&B, funk, jazz, experimental music, and hip-hop.