Sun Hop Fat’s New “Elephant Parade” Gives Funky Twist to Ethiopian Jazz

Listening to SF afrobeat collective Sun Hop Fat makes you feel confident, like you’re on a mission and you know exactly where you’re headed. Pop on tracks like “Rhinosaur” and “Silly Putty” and it feels like you’re driving an undulating road, multicolored images calling you to dance or to ease you deeper into your chair, eyes closed toes tapping. This ten piece instrumental band tells stories without words. They’re Ethiopian jazz meets American funk, a touch of bossa nova and a little psychedelic twist. Luckily for us, they’re playing December 8th at The Independent with Royal Jelly Jive. Put your swaying, dancing, tapping shoes on and catch em. -Michelle Kicherer