Thurs., May 02, B-Side Players

The B-Side Players is a nine-piece group that plays world music the right way. The group emerged from San Diego nearly 20 years ago and has recorded seven albums. Its music succeeds because the group doesn't just throw in random musical elements for the hell of it. Instead, its members are well-versed in myriad genres, and together they seamlessly blend influences such as jazz, funk, Latin, hip-hop, soul, punk and ska. Think of a jazzier version of Manu Chao and Radio Bemba Sound System (a group that similarly occasionally sings in Spanish). It's a sound that, because of its diversity, is instantly and universally accessible. Mariachi Los Versatilles opens this Cinco de Mayo party. 6000 J Street, www.thebsideplayers.com.