When the Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet played at the Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival last year, it was a rhythmic feast, provided by percussionist Freddy "Huevito" Lobatón on the cajón, Shirazette Tinnin on drums, John Benitez on bass, and Yuri Juárez guitar. Soaring above that core group were Alegria and Laura Andrea Leguia on soulful trumpet and saxophone respectively. If you are wondering what kind of repertoire an Afro-Peruvian Sextet explores, think Duke Ellington's "Caravan" with a decidedly Peruvian flavor.
Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet plays Saturday, March 31, at The Penthouse at One East Avenue. 7 p.m. $30-$45 ($25-$40 in advance). exodustojazz.com; afroperuviansextet.com.