Casement’s Amazon legacy comes alive in a jazz-infused trio performance blending Peruvian, Irish & improvised sound worlds.

In 1910, Irish humanitarian Roger Casement journeyed to the Amazon rainforest of Peru to investigate horrific atrocities committed against Indigenous communities by the rubber industry. His report—now known as The Blue Book—became a pivotal document in the history of human rights. Over a century later, Peruvian-Irish composer and guitarist Rodrigo Almonte brings Casement’s powerful testimony to life in Sounds of the Blue Book—a striking new suite of music that blends jazz, improvisation, and traditional Irish and Peruvian sounds into a moving and richly textured performance. Joined by acclaimed pianist Lorenzo Vitolo and drummer Matthew Jacobson, Almonte’s trio weaves historical narrative with emotive soundscapes that transport audiences through the Amazonian jungle, Indigenous rhythms, and echoes of a forgotten past.

Developed with the support of Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Arts Office and Music Network, Sounds of the Blue Book is a bold and imaginative musical work. Blending historical depth with contemporary artistry, the trio crafts a performance that resonates both emotionally and intellectually, bridging cultures, timelines, and traditions through music.

This event is made possible thanks to the support by Kerry County Council Arts Office

Line up:
Rodrigo Almonte (Peru/Ireland)-guitar and compositions
Lorenzo Vitolo (Italy/Switzerland)-piano
Michael McCarthy (Ireland)-drums

rodrigoalmonte.com

nonfaction.com/events/rodrigo-almonte/