Headliners and Featured Bands for 2025 (our 20th Festival):
Ozomatli (Sunday evening Headliner):
If the city of Los Angeles had a soundtrack, it would be Ozomatli. Since their formation in 1995, the six-piece, multi-genre band has been a cultural force, blending Latin, hip-hop, funk, reggae, and global influences into an unmistakable sound that embodies the energy and diversity of LA. In 2025, Ozomatli celebrates an incredible milestone: 30 years of bringing their dynamic, genre-defying music to audiences around the world.
Emerging from the politically charged streets of Los Angeles, Ozomatli’s origins are steeped in activism and a desire to unite communities through music. This ethos has carried the band across three decades, earning them a dedicated global following and accolades that include three GRAMMY® Awards, four iconic performances at the Hollywood Bowl, a TED Talk, and countless sold-out shows worldwide. From high-profile TV appearances on The Today Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, and Austin City Limits, to groundbreaking tours in places like Burma and Mongolia, Ozomatli’s music and message transcend borders, languages, and cultures.
The ensemble’s six founding members—Asdru Sierra (vocals, trumpet), Raul Pacheco (vocals, guitars), Uli Bella (saxophone, vocals), Wil-Dog Abers (bass), Jiro Yamaguchi (percussion), and Justin Poree (vocals, percussion)—have remained true to their mantra: “We take you around the world through the heartbeat of Los Angeles”. Their music is a vibrant collision of styles, drawing from salsa, dancehall, cumbia, samba, funk, merengue, New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga, and Indian raga. This eclecticism is at the heart of their sound, resonating with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.
Ozomatli’s legacy extends far beyond their music. Known for their tireless community involvement, the band has used their platform to amplify causes that matter, from immigrant rights to education and beyond. Their ability to combine socially conscious lyrics with infectious grooves has made them a beacon of unity and resilience; a band that celebrates life while addressing the struggles that connect us all.
Their 30th anniversary is not just a celebration of longevity, but also a testament to their enduring relevance and innovation. With a career that began with their groundbreaking 1998 self-titled debut, they continue to evolve and inspire. Whether performing new material or beloved classics, Ozomatli’s live shows remain a jubilant experience, igniting dance floors and uniting communities.
As they embark on their fourth decade, Ozomatli stands as a symbol of Los Angeles’ past, present, and future—a band whose music is as multifaceted and vibrant as the city they call home. Here’s to 30 years of Ozomatli, and the many more adventures yet to come. ozomatli.com
Couch (Saturday evening Headliner):
Boston-based band Couch injects each project with their signature flavor: expressive horns, warm vocals, and bubbling synths—crafting an oasis of joy for musicians and non-musicians alike.
From their formation in 2019 until spring 2021, members of Couch were scattered across the country; they tackled the challenges of being a “long-distance band,” writing and even recording virtually. Despite these challenges, they celebrated the release of their debut EP, “COUCH”, in February 2021, as well as three singles and a 20-city headline tour in 2022.
In 2023, Couch released their sophomore EP, “Sunshower”, accompanied by a two-part 40-city US headline tour, performances at Boston Calling and Levitate, and a sold-out UK tour.
This past fall and winter, Couch opened for Cory Wong (Vulfpeck/Fearless Flyers) on his 38-city US and European tour.
Couch recently announced their largest headline shows yet, including stops in Boston (Roadrunner), New York (Brooklyn Steel), and Washington D.C. (9:30 Club).
“Couch is kicking it old-school with a delightful modern twist … [They] are single – or seven-handedly – breathing new life into the pop music scene.” – Sheesh Media
“Fusion seems to be a key word for Couch. Influenced by artists from Paul McCartney and Buddy Rich to Charlie Puth and Bruno Mars, Couch’s unique music brings together instruments as different as bass guitar and saxophone to blur the lines between genres…” – The Harvard Crimson
The Big Takeover (Saturday evening Featured Act):
Traditionalists or progressives? Fronted by the charismatic Jamaican-born singer and songwriter NeeNee Rushie, the seven-piece New York band The Big Takeover plays original music that is rooted in and reverent toward the genres and rhythms of Jamaican pop: reggae, rocksteady, ska. They are devotees of Desmond Dekker and the way the old school did it. At the same time, The Big Takeover crosses lines and blends traditions like global pop fusionists. Their deceptively complex arrangements and big hooks connect with the spirit of Motown and the uptown sophistication of the 21st century retro soul and R&B revival scene.
That rich sound, along with their rigorous performing schedule and studio work, has been paying off. In 2018, the Big Takeover completed a successful 12-state tour. They were enthusiastically received by 10,000 at Omaha’s Jazz on the Green festival. They delivered an outrageously infectious and nuanced acoustic performance on the popular reggae-centric Sugarshack Sessions. Meanwhile, their current standalone single “Rainboots” has scored big with the discerning tastes at National Public Radio. The Big Takeover has appeared live in studio on several NPR stations, while “Rainboots” is in rotation on all of them.
“Led by the powerhouse, Jamaican-born singer and songwriter NeeNee Rushie, The Big Takeover’s horn- powered global blend reveals deep fluency in reggae and world music, hints of soul and Motown, and their own infectious brand of pop classicism.” — John Burdick
FULL FESTIVAL LINEUP:
SATURDAY JULY 12, 2025:
NOON – Maplewood Glee Club
A beloved men’s chorus known for its humor and harmony, MGC has been a MAPSO staple for nearly 80 years, performing everything from the Beatles to Bruce. maplewoodgleeclub.com
12:45 PM – Becky Crosby
A pop rock artist based in NYC, backed by a group of exceptionally talented musicians. Crosby’s compositions possess a distinct and eclectic blend of genres. linktr.ee/beckycrosby
1:30 – Ballistic Berry
A dynamic quartet hailing from Asbury Park. The band blends vintage vibes with a contemporary twist, creating a sound that resonates across generations. instagram.com/ballisticberryofficial
2:15 – Paper Money
A mix of 90s rock and punk, with a modern twist. The songs are fun and catchy, balanced with lyrical themes that juxtapose nostalgia, sarcasm and existentialism. instagram.com/papermoneymusic
3:00 – Gina Royale
A Jersey-born alt-pop singer-songwriter known for her ability to fuse mainstream pop sensibilities with elements of rock & alternative music. ginaroyale.com
3:45 – Laredo
Longtime Maplewood and South Orange residents with special guests, who bring their cover versions of songs from Croce to Carlile and Dylan to Dawes. facebook.com/tripdoggies
4:30 – Mother Hubbard
A unique funk-rock group hailing from Northern New Jersey, captivating listeners with their unique sound that is somewhere between the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Steely Dan. mahubbard.com
5:15 – Sarah Hodd + The Drive
An 8-piece powerhouse, playing explosive covers and bluesy originals. It’s neo-soul meets rock n roll!! All driven by electric vocals and a rocking band. instagram.com/sarahhoddmusic
6:00 – Water Street
A new version of Indie-Rock, mixing acoustic melodies with rugged rock and roll bursts, enticing sax riffs, a driving rhythm section & some hints of funk. waterstreetofficial.com
7:15 – The Big Takeover (Featured Act)
Led by the powerhouse Jamaican-born singer and songwriter NeeNee Rushie, The Big Takeover’s horn-powered global blend reveals deep fluency in reggae and world music, hints of soul and Motown, and their own infectious brand of pop classicism. bigtakeoverband.com
8:30 – Couch (Saturday Headliner)
Boston-based band Couch injects each project with their signature flavor: expressive horns, warm vocals, and bubbling synths—crafting an oasis of joy for musicians and non-musicians alike. couchtheband.com
Then: pick after yourselves, get home safely, rest up, and prepare to do it again on Sunday!
SUNDAY, JULY 13, 2025:
NOON – Cold Hill
A big sound, original Rock and Roll Band. With Rock as their backbone, other influences of styles breaking through include Bluegrass, Funk, Reggae and Jam Band. instagram.com/coldhillband
12:45 – Roe Knows Best
A pop-punk band, indelibly New Jersey in sound, style, and attitude. The lyrical themes of Roe Knows Best songs speak about love, anxiety, and loneliness. linktr.ee/roeknowsbest
1:30 – Cheer Up Dusty
They deliver high energy, hook-filled pop punk with authentic lyrics alongside a Philly edge. Perfect for fans of Blink-182, Sum 41, and The Wonder Years. instagram.com/cheerupdusty
2:15 – The Penniless Loafers
Ska that rocks. Brass that booms. Guitars that shred. The Penniless Loafers keep Jersey City & NYC dancing with high-energy, horn-driven grooves. reverbnation.com/thepennilessloafers
3:00 – The Hip Snacks
A Denver-based six-piece powerhouse of explosive soul music. For fans of Tedeschi Trucks Band, Bonnie Raitt, Allman Brothers. thehipsnacks.com
3:45 – Essex Funk Collective
A local, multi-generational group playing soul, disco, R&B, and funk grooves. essexfunk.com
4:30 – Norbert Leo Butz
A two time Tony Award winning actor of stage, film and television, Norbert Leo Butz is also a singer/songwriter, combining elements of rock, soul, and folk with confessional lyrics. instagram.com/norbert_leo_butz
5:15 – Reina Williams + The Remedy
A blend of reggae, hip-hop, and soul into a high-vibe experience. From smooth flows to infectious rhythms, they bring a fresh sound that moves the crowd. reinawilliams.com
6:00 – simmerr
An infusion of bedrock 80s soul with indie-rock, a carefree yacht rock energy, and Latin jazz rhythms, to put an irresistible smile on the faces of audiences. instagram.com/simmerrtheband
6:45 – Annie Minogue Band
The band’s driving and energizing sound, which combines a gutsy rock attitude, great pop sensibility with a hint of the blues, is reminiscent of rock’s greatest female icons. annieminogueband.com
7:45 – Ozomatli (Sunday Headliner)
Ozomatli has spent 30 years uniting communities through music, earning three GRAMMY® Awards. They continue to inspire and move hearts, minds and dance floors across the globe. ozomatli.com
Thanks for coming! Please pick after yourselves, get home safely, and we will see you again next July for our 2026 festival!
