This May, we’re dancing to heartwarming and head-bopping tunes on transit with an animated musical performance from Kutapira .

For a year, TransLink’s performance series Art Moves has brought colour to Metro Vancouver transit with its one-of-a-kind acts. Kutapira’s music has brought liveliness to local and international stages. We’re excited to bring this experience to our transit system for free!

Their music, which is a fusion of Zimbabwean marimba with West African and Afro-Cuban percussion, is sure to make you dance.

Have a listen to songs Circus Jerk and Roda Viva for a taste of the fun! But nothing beats watching them live as band members Chris Couto, Sangito Bigelow, and Kai Buchan switch seamlessly between instruments. You’ll be listening to great music and watching an impressive performance!

Where to watch Kutapira perform on transit

Watch Kutapira live at these spots:

• Art Moves location, presented by Downtown Van, at Waterfront Station: Wednesday, May 17, from 5 – 7 p.m.
• Bus loop at Bridgeport Station: Friday, May 19, from 4 – 6 p.m.
• Coquitlam Central Station: Thursday, May 25, from 4 – 6 p.m.
• Lonsdale Quay SeaBus Terminal: Friday, May 26, 4 – 6 p.m.

About Kutapira

Kutapira is a Vancouver-born percussion ensemble made up of five core members who have been forming Kutapira since 2005. Originally playing world music, Kutapira has evolved to add sounds of the electric guitar, electric bass, and vocals creating a piece of upbeat music with hints of Funk and Hip Hop. You’ll hear this unique style on Gito’s Song from the All Aboard album.

The band has performed on world stages including in Scotland where they played for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, representing Canada during the Aberdeen International Youth Festival in 2014.

Photo credit: Chris Couto

Photo credit: Chris Couto

In British Columbia, you might’ve heard Kutapira at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, Vancouver International Jazz Festival, and Shambhala Music Festival.

Kutapira translates to “sweetness” in the Shona language of Zimbabwe. The band hopes their audience will get that sweet feeling and let loose when they hear their music.

If you watch a performance, let us know what you think in the comments!