Las Palabras is Rafael Cohen, a New Yorker born in Mexico and raised in Washington D.C. to Guatemalan parents. His earliest musical experiences were in DC’s punk scene and eventually he recorded two albums for Dischord Records. In college he pursued an interest in avantgarde jazz studying, playing and recording with Anthony Braxton and to this date he tours the world writing and recording with the dance rock act !!! (Chk Chk Chk).

Cohen started Las Palabras on a small nylon string guitar purchased on tour where he added lyrics in his native Spanish to instrumental music influenced by an increasing interest in Brazilian artists from the 70’s like Jorge Ben and Caetano Veloso. His first self-titled album was released in 2020 and his second album “Fe” (“Faith”), in 2024. On this record Cohen is backed by Chris Egan (!!!, Solange, Blood Orange) on drums and Alberto Lopez (LCD Soundsystem, Stanley Clarke) on percussion. Producer Adrian Quesada (Black Pumas) mixed the album in Austin, TX.

Join us Thursday, June 12 for an intimate live musical performance by Las Palabras, part of the new King Tai Live Music Series. Space is extremely limited so get your ticket now before they’re all gone!

WHEN: Thursday, June 12, 6:30pm (kitchen will be open for dinner or snacks)

WHERE: King Tai Bar

9pm DJ set by Rafael after the show (open to general public)

*More artists are being added to the music series calendar so check back again soon!