Global Union 2013

Global Union wrapped up its eighth year with much fanfare and as usual, world-class music. This year, four music acts hit the stage with high energy, spirituality and deep history.

Janka Nabay and the Bubu Gang started things off for the day with their modern take on Sierra Leone’s century-old music tradition called “bubu.” Pakistan’s Qawal Najmuddin Saifuddin and Brothers followed with high energy, hypnotic qawwali. Milwaukee natives Masonic Wonders, the longest continuing black gospel quartet, brought their uplifting gospel and blues. Montreal’s Nomadic Massive, a multilingual, multicultural hip-hop group, closed out the festival with adrenaline-inducing rhythm and beats.

Global Union is held yearly by Alverno Presents on the grassy hill and bandshell of Humboldt Park. People camped out on the field with their family, friends and dogs. The atmosphere was relaxing, with many eyes shut, feeling the late summer air and enthralled in the music. The outstanding music itself makes the case as to why Global Union is one of the most popular music festivals in the city.