The internationally popular Los Angeles-based band Ozomatli returns to Sacramento State Dec. 6 at 7:30 p.m. to bring their blend of hip-hop, alternative, samba, salsa, meringue, funk, jazz, cumbia and ska to eager and waiting fans. The concert will be held in the University Union Ballroom and is sure to be a sold-out event, like the last time the group held a concert at Sac State.

“Ozomatli” is the Nahuatl word for the Aztec god of dance, and appears on the Aztec calendar in the form of a monkey. The band?s stories and meanings come through their music whether you understand the Spanish language or not. Using a variety of instruments such as congas, turntables, saxophones, claves, tablas and trumpets, this band has captured fans of many different musical genres.

The ethnic and musical makeup is as diverse as Los Angeles itself. Whatever their race, this group sends out a positive message to its listeners.

“We represent the ghettos of L.A.,” said bandmember Wil-Dog. “We want to make a change in our neighborhoods, show people a positive way to live.” Ozomatli has opened for Carlos Santana, and he introduced them as “the future of music.” This introduction proves true as the band continues to rise in popularity. They also had the opportunity to play with Los Lobos, Johnny Pacheco and Yomo Toro.

The band was born out of a protest at the Democratic National Convention; their music said to emphasize the breaking down of ignorance and narrow-mindedness in society.

“Embrace the Chaos” is Ozomatli?s newest album and was coincidentally released on Sept. 11. According to the band, the message of this album is “accepting the bad things of the world but wanting to change them.”

The concert, presented by UNIQUE Programs, costs $10 for general admission, $5 for students or advance tickets. Tickets are available at Central Ticket Office, 278-4323, and at Tickets.com or 766-2277.