In the summer of 2009, the Sierra Leone Refugee All Stars headed to New Orleans to record Rise & Shine, the follow up to their acclaimed debut album, Living Like A Refugee. With producer Steve Berlin of Los Lobos at the helm and New Orleans guests: Trombone Shorty, Washboard Chaz and the Bonerama Horns adding NOLA spice, the band created a beautiful musical statement that is both true to their Sierra Leonean traditions and roots and to their sense of optimism and musical exploration.