For over 18 years, Bop Shop Records has had a happy and productive relationship with AACM master percussionist Kahil El'Zabar. Going back to 2000 when he first brought his main band, the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, to the atrium at Village Gate, he has graced us with several versions of his various ensembles. Earlier in 2016, we presented an edition of the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble featuring trombonist Craig Harris and baritone saxophonist Hamiet Blueitt. Back in 2001, we presented the duo of El'Zabar and violinist Billy Bang. But perhaps our most well-attended concert was a duet set with saxophonist David Murray in 2000. And we are proud that it resulted in the album We Is: Live At The Bop Shop, released on Delmark Records to great acclaim.

[source: Bop Shop website, 2018-May-28]