Joyful Pre Xmas Tribute To Jose Guaman

I was scheduled to dj the last part of the benefit/tribute to La Fuerza Gigante's band leader and bongocero Jose Guaman last Sunday.  He has been battling pancreatic cancer.  A group of friends led by fellow musician "Cafe" Agosto and Angel Cordero organized this benefit/tribute to a nice guy.  By the time I arrived at Cocomo,  I was delighted to see that the place was stuffed with folks and that they were being entertained by the likes of Orquesta Borinquen who played a smokin' set.  DJ Carlitos Way followed them with selections that connected with the dancing crowd.

Guaman has been a fixture on the salsa scene for the past decade or so with Orquesta Baakan.  He had to change the name to La Fuerza Gigante a while back due to legal reasons but that hasn't stopped him from radiating his warm personality, putting out a big smile and playing good music.  The Salsa community that night reflected an older, mature crowd who enjoyed and applauded the sounds of  Pa'l Bailador, Julio Bravo Y Salsabor, Alexis Y Su Original which also featured veteran sonero Monchy Esteves, La Fuerza Gigante and special guests throughout the entire evening.

There was a touching, heartfelt tribute to Jose from family members including his wife and sons and fellow musicians such as Karl Perrazo, Julio Bravo, Cafe and Avance's Armando Cordova.  There were a lot of teary eyes during that tribute at Cocomo.  The show ran late but I got my chance to play music in honor of Jose.

The show reflected life as it often plays out: the happy with the sad and the hard road ahead.  Jose was showered with enthusiastic support, hope and optimism from a loving, appreciative crowd.  I was glad I was there.

Hahahaha!

Hahahaha!  We need to laugh as we near the close of another year.  We have made it.  We survived another long year.

A worldwide financial crisis and a bad economy has cost millions of people jobs, security and in some cases, their homes.  There is a monetary and class divide that has deepened the gulf between the halves and have nots.  The middle class has shrunk over the course of the last three years.

This situation drove people to the streets to voice their anger and frustration with the target being the one percent who have the majority of the money and power.  Activists have been butting heads with police on the streets to call attention to these issues.  It is dawning on all of us that the 99 percent is a wide range of people that are different and diverse.  It's difficult for people to agree on what to do next.

The landscape of this rapidly changing world has now forced creative people to turn into unlikely entrepreneurs and businessmen in order to survive and thrive.   We need to educate ourselves, read and learn new skills that can keep opening new doors to us while we learn to navigate the political system to our advantage.  We need to vote and advocate for better opportunities and perhaps, a responsive government.  Welcome to the new year.  

Eddie Palmieri celebrates 75th!

The irresistible rhythms of salsa dura were driving people to the dance floor at the San Francisco Yoshi's club.  The sound was coming from 9 time Grammy award winning maestro Eddie Palmieri who was in town to celebrate his 75th birthday.  One of the true geniuses and innovators of Latin music who has been making an impact since the 1960's, Palmieri continues his life work by putting out dynamic recordings such as his new 50th Anniversary dvd.

Powerful live performances has always been Palmieri's speciality.  This was evident as he brought La Perfecta II featuring an all-star group consisting of the great sonero Herman Olivera, trescero extraordinare Nelson Gonzalez, young bass phenom Loques Curtis, the tight percussion section of Little Johnny Rivero, Jose Clausell and Orlando Vega, the tremendous horn section featuring the trombones of Jimmy Bosch and Doug Beavers and the flute of Karen Joseph.  Palmieri's repertoire consisted of his classic dance tunes such as "Sujetate La Lengua", "La Malanga"and "Lo Que Traigo Es Sabroso" to name a few.

La Perfecta II is simply one of the finest live dance orchestras that exist...period.  The interplay and communication between musicians, the sheer virtuosity of the players and the fiercest dance music to be heard on any bandstand.  Eddie Palmieri was in fine form whether he was playing jaw dropping solos, leading his top-notch ensemble or cracking jokes to the audience.  I wasn't alone in thinking that I was lucky to be there to catch the master at work.

Ragga Muffins Go Crazy at Mezzanine

I knew that there were many Reggaeton fans out there but fans of Reggae En Espanol?  You bet!  The hip trendy club Mezzanine featured 3 out of the biggest acts in the genre: Cultura Profetica, Gondwana, Los Cafres along with locally based Bayonics at the Reggae Latino 2011 Fest.  The place was packed with mostly young people who danced, screamed, jumped, cheered and raised their drinks up in the air to party to their heroes on stage.  DJ Stepwise kept the heads bobbing in-between the breaks.  Cultura lived up to their headline status with a dynamic set featuring their potent politically charged dance music.  Los Cafres' charismatic vocalist had the crowd pumped up while the band slammed down their ragga dub beats.  The Bay Area's own Bayonics, in true chameleon form stuck to the Reggae theme of the evening, held their own with a powerful opening set.  I missed Gondwana but caught a lot of the island love before I left the club thanks to Adrian Goddard of Jaffe Events.

Willie Colon In The House!!

What a week!  Caught Willie Colon in one of his very rare SF Bay Area appearances at the 10th Annual San Francisco Salsa Congress at the Oakland Marriott.   Colon, who has a notorious reputation for being unpredictable, played a phenomenal set.  Backed by a top notch band and a powerful horn section boasting 2 trombones and sax, Willie was splendid on lead vocals, trombone and bass trumpet (one of his featured instruments since the late 70's which sounds like a trombone).  He thrilled the crowd with his opening medley of his early hits with Hector LaVoe.  His trombone playing was strong blasting out monas as he did 40 or more years ago.  He was also in fine voice as he performed songs from various periods of his long career with passion, style and power.  Colon doesn't visit us very often but this was definitely a musical highlight.

Latin Grammylicious

I'm checked out the Latin Grammys on TV on Thursday night.  I watched as the current crop of hot recording stars who are enjoying massive success such as Shakira, Romeo Santos singing a duet with Usher, Pitbull with Marc Anthony, Christian Castro, Pepe Aguilar and Disney rehab comeback princess Demi Lovato entertained with gusto.  This 3 hour awards ceremony/spectacular is your traditional long drawn out affair with "highlights" that were either dope, corny or awful.  Calle 13 accepted the award for record of the year with Residente and their crew as they seized the moment to make a political statement supporting the current student protest movements in Chile and Puerto Rico.   I had to endure Alejandra Guzman and Franco De Vita as they sang an insipid ballad that was nominated for song of the year.  Co-host singer/actress Lucero and the Muppets own Kermit The Frog introduced the hot Mexican norteno band Intocable.  Pitbull and guest Marc Anthony performed their hit duet surrounded by an over abundance of scantily clad women..some wearing bikinis and some were being showered by water!  So much for a "top notch" awards show.  Oh well, there's always next year!

Be ready to bring your dance shoes 2 my shows

I will be the guest DJ at the new Sabor Salsa monthly happening next week in Marin County at Georges Nightclub, 842 Fourth Street in San Rafael on Thursday, November 17 starting at 9 pm.  I will be putting it in the mix with my blend of Salsa Dura, Mambo, Musica Cubana, Merengue, a taste of Bachata y mucho mas for all the salseros and salseras.   Georges has been featuring live salsa each month since August featuring bands such as Orquesta Borinquen, Avance and Julio Bravo y Salsabor.  I'll be bringing the Con Sabor wall of sound as featured during my nights at Cafe Cocomo.  Speaking of Cafe Cocomo, I will be the dj this Saturday, November 12 as the 19 piece Pacific Mambo Orchestra celebrates their one year anniversary.  This great big band is led by pianist Christian Tumulan (Montuno Swing) and trumpeter Stefen Kuehn (Mazacote).  Be ready to bring your dance shoes!

Oscar D'Leon - Still A Superman!

I had the opportunity to run over to Roccapulco after my radio show on KPFA to catch the living salsa legend, Oscar D' Leon last Saturday.  D'Leon is one of the premier performers in Latin music....a tireless, consummate showman whose live shows are legendary and whose sets last two to three hours at least.  I arrived at Roccapulco once D'Leon started his set.

At 68, Oscar D'Leon looks good for someone who has survived 4 heart attacks and a few scandals throughout his long career...his voice more powerful than ever and his body strong and robust as he performed his dance moves with the boundless energy of someone half his age.  He is a performer that solidly connects with his audience whether he is singing to an admiring fan, signing autographs, taking notes from fans or on the receiving end of a bra thrown on stage from a smitten female.  D'Leon sang an impressive range of material from his big hits such as "Calculadora" to Mexican rancheras to boleros.  A tune or two bordered on schlock for my taste, but it was his brand of Salsa that consistently had the crowd going with expert backup from his solid orchestra of veterans.

Although he was constantly covered in sweat, D'Leon didn't let it bother him at all as he gave 150% for his audience.  He hardly took any break as he went from one tune to the next to the delight of fans and dancers alike.  This was the kind of show that reminds you why a legend such as D'Leon is still loved and appreciated today.

Diego El Cigala triumphs at Zellerbach

The anticipation was high at Zellerbach Auditorium for the debut of the renowned flamenco vocalist Diego El Cigala at the Bay Area Flamenco Festival.  The lines at the box office were so backed up due to an internal snafu that caused the show to start one hour late.

However, once the long haired and bearded El Cigala stepped on stage and started to sing, the crowd who hassled to get in the show thawed out as he took them under his spell.  His distinctive voice was as grand as were his hand gestures which he used to direct the band.  His group consisted of exceptional players such as guitarist Diego Del Morao (son of Flamenco guitar legend Moraito), pianist Jaime Calabuch Jumitus, bassist/vocalist Yelsy Heredia, percussionist Sabu Porrina and violinist Bernardo Parrilla.   They joined Cigala in different configurations from duo to full band to perform the variety of flamenco, tango and boleros that was presented that evening.

Cigala sang captivating versions of great songs such as his classic version of "Lagrimas Negras" from his 2003 Grammy award collaboration with Bebo Valdes.  El Cigala gave so much of himself during this performance displaying both the strength and tenderness of his expressive voice.  He was touched by the Bay Area audience who cheered him on and brought him back on for 3 encores.  What a phenomenal show!

Catching Calle 13 On Their Own Terms

One of the cutting edge groups who started during the Reggaeton craze and who has left that genre way behind is Puerto Rico's own Calle 13.  

Led by step brothers rapper/lyricist Residente (Rene Perez Joglar) and multi-instrumentalist Visitante (Eduardo Martinez), Calle 13 has defied being pigeonholed by creating original politically and socially charged music that isn't easily labeled as hip hop, reggaeton, electronica, pop or electronica.

They create sophisticated dance music that speaks to the mind as well as the feet.  The duo has been nominated for 10 Latin Grammys for their latest recording "Entren Los Que Quieran".

Calle 13 brought their highly anticipated show to The Fillmore last week.  After making the crowd wait more than an hour, a shirtless Residente stormed on the stage, showed off his rippled abs and fired off rhymes like smoking bullets.  He was backed by a full tight band consisting of drums, bass, guitar, two horns, female rapper (their sister Iliana "PG-13") and two percussionists led by Visitante on guitar, keyboards and electronics.   Residente led the sold out Fillmore crowd on a exuberant call and response on many recognizable tunes from their past recordings as well as "Entren Los Que Quieran".  Although the energy of the show recalled a high wired hip hop show, the music reflected the many diverse influences that Calle 13 integrate into their sound.

Hopefully after the great reception that they received at The Fillmore, Calle 13 will be back to visit us more often.  

Orquesta Aragon - Down Memory Lane

The scene at Yoshi's was highly charged caused by an irresistible catalyst on stage that had the dance floor packed and excited people moving in their seats.  Orquesta Aragon, Cuba's beloved classic charanga (band emphasizing flute and violins) who celebrated 72 years of playing together was back in town.

Aragon, well known and loved for their songs that are part of the Cuban songbook such as "El Bodeguero" took the audience down memory lane and back to performing a modern day timba done in their own explosive yet elegant style.  Orquesta Aragon kept their strong dance groove strong mixing great cha cha chas with guaracha, son, danzon and timba.

The orquesta featuring 5 violins(!), flute,  piano, bass and 3 singers sounded tight as they played with swing, virtuosity, precision and grace.  The band led by violinist Rafael Lay Jr. are seasoned pros who also know when to improvise with gusto they demonstrated during their classic "Pare Cochero".  They were so good that I savored each note of music that hit my ears with a deeper appreciation for this musical institution.

I look forward to their next visit because they are such a treat for the senses and my feet.

Salsa Mayor takes over Cocomo

Pianist Maykel Blanco y Su Salsa Mayor hit the SF area this past Friday to a full house at Cafe Cocomo.  Representing the new energy in Timba, Cuba's contemporary dance music, Salsa Mayor did not disappoint.

They were similar to other great timba bands in their formation: 4 vocalists with distinctive personalities, keyboards, 2 trombones, 2 trumpets, drum kit with timbales, congas, guiro, bass and Blanco.  Maykel Blanco ran the stage like a man possessed: he would play his piano, run to different parts of the stage to physically give his band directions when he needed the band to pump it up and jumped on the microphone to get the crowd going.

The front line of fine vocalists: Yasser, Michel (who sang last time with Pupy), Livan and Yordir fired up the crowd with their strong voices, inventive choreography,  call and response and interplay but with youthful sexually charged energy to spare - all of them must be in their twenties although the baby faced Livan may even be younger than 20.

Although in existence for 6 years, Blanco has reaped massive hits, exposure through his video clips and has traveled to 22 countries gaining recognition and respect.  The band was well rehearsed and tight driving the audience to the dance floor and the ladies to the front of the stage.  It was a spectacular debut.

No doubt we'll be having return visits from this young powerhouse.

new month for bright moments

(Originally posted on October 1, 2011)  The fall season is here and the anticipation was high for the appearances of Maykel Blanco Y Su Salsa Mayor, Orquesta Aragon and Oscar D' Leon who are all visiting the SF Bay Area in October.  What a contrast in styles as Maykel Blanco represents the young energy in contemporary Cuban dance music which is Timba.  His band Salsa Mayor has a solid reputation as one of Cuba's most exciting live acts both for their showmanship and music.  The legendary Orquesta Aragon represents the undying tradition of classic Cuban dance music.  The champagne of Cuban charanga (a band that emphasizes the flute and violin sound instead of brass) has existed for 72 years now under the direction of violinist Rafael Lay Jr.  Expect Cuban music of the highest order played with elegance and virtuosity.  Venezuela's legendary vocalist/bassist/powerhouse Oscar D' Leon has been thrilling audiences for 40 years since he was first noticed with Dimension Latina.  One of Salsa's greatest soneros, D'Leon is an impeccable showman whose two to three hour tour de force sets are of salsa aficionado's legend.  Although he has had his health issues and setbacks, D'Leon is bringing his orquesta to seduce us once again with his powerful voice and swinging sound!

New Music - September 2011

I am listening to great music on my cd player such as the new Poncho Sanchez/Terence Blanchard "Chano Y Dizzy" which is a tribute to the late pioneers of Afro-Cuban jazz Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie.  Their opening "Chano Pozo Medley" comprised of "Tin Tin Deo", "Manteca" and Guachi Guaro" out of the Pozo/Gillespie repertoire is worth the price of the cd or download alone!!  Outstanding performances by Blanchard (sounding tasteful and powerful as ever) and Sanchez who plays likes he's been possessed by the spirit of Pozo!  This Latin Jazz opus also features tasty salsa for dancing.  I like the new recording of local based salseros, Montuno Swing entitled "Rico Tumbao" which has a tremendous amount of swing under the capable direction of musical director/keyboardist Christian Tumulan.  The diversity of music that ranges from salsa dura, timba, bachata, merengue to balls out descarga with the help of the latest version of the SF Salsa All Stars.  Montuno Swing also features a trio of fine percussionists who can handle lead vocals: Edgardo Cambon, Omar Ledesma and Braulio Barrera.  Let's not forget the new project "De Corazon Al Son" by the talented Mexican flautist Miguel Martinez and his group Corazon Sur.  Martinez, whose exceptional flute work usually leaves dancers sweating as part of the all-star Karabali ensemble, mixes Mexican folklore into his dynamic Afro-Cuban jazz.  Tracks such as "Descarga" and "La Bruja" features fine ensemble work from contributors Jose Roberto Hernandez, Julio Perez, Marco Diaz, Saul Sierra and Carlos Caro.

Maykel Blanco visits SF In October

I'm excited about the following: I've been asked to emcee the SF debut of the red hot Cuban band Maykal Blanco Y Su Salsa Mayor on Friday, Oct. 14 at Cafe Cocomo.  Now Maykal has been thrilling audiences for the past few years with the most innovative and hip timba music coming out of the island today.  His hit songs such as "Esto Esta" and "Anda Y Pegate" are considered classic dance floor anthems.  The band on record is furious and they have a reputation for great live shows.   There is a lot of anticipation to this show.  For more information, visit www.cultucuba.org

Pedrito Martinez

The end of Summer is almost here but there are still great people coming into town such as renowned rumbero Pedrito Martinez, a much in-demand percussionist since he landed in the New York area.  Pedrito has performed with the whos who of great musicians ranging from Eddie Palmieri to Bruce Springsteen.  He will be performing on Saturday, September 25 from 1 to 3 pm in a free concert at the Yerba Buena Gardens Festival located at Mission near 3rd Street in San Francisco.  Pedrito will be featuring music from his rumba project "Ecobio Enyenison" and from his current group who plays regularly in New York.  Pedrito who was born in the Cayo Hueso barrio in Havana has performed with some of the giants in Cuban music and folklore such as Lazaro Ros, Tata Guines and Los Munequitos De Matanzas.  The John Santos Sextet will be opening the show.

Jerry Rivera at Festival De La Isla

I rounded out this past week with a pilgrimage over to Pena Adobe Park in Vacaville for the 10th Annual Festival De La Isla, Puerto Rican outdoor festival. Salsa romantica idol Jerry Rivera was the headliner. Now I haven't seen Jerry since I worked in charge of stage operations for a show that he headlined at the SF Concourse over 10 years ago with La India and Grupo Niche. Now, Jerry is making a big comeback after a 4 year hiatus with a hit "Solo Pienso En Ti" climbing the Billboard Latin charts. So I was curious to see this matinee idol of pop salsa at this stage of his career. He just started his set by the time I arrived and already had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand. Mr. "Cara De Nino" has grown up to be a boyish looking, physically buffed man who displayed his cool as he effortlessly sang his big commercial salsa hits. He delighted the ladies in the audience by peppering each song numerous times with his trademark "Baby". His version of his biggest hit "Amores Como Lo Nuestro" rocked both the mix of old school and new school salseros in the public. Included in his repertoire was a lengthy passionate tribute to the late vocalist Frankie Ruiz, one of Rivera's idols. Jerry Rivera is a singer with a fine upper register but he is not nor does he pretend to be a sonero (a traditional salsa singer that can improvise lyrics on the spot). He connected with the audience at times, smiling and speaking directly to folks in the crowd. And at other times, he seemed detached like he was following a script and on remote control. My impression of Jerry Rivera is that he is happy to be exactly who he is: a pop idol who has body of hits with Salsa music as his musical foundation. Members of Orquesta Borinquen provided solid backup for Rivera under the capable direction of musical director/pianist Ramon Sanchez from Puerto Rico. The large turnout was another feather in the cap of Linda and Cafe August, the festival organizers.

Is It A Crime To Enjoy Too Much Good Music???

Talk about a whirlwind week of great music that I had the good fortune to experience. The 90 Miles project featuring three young jazz giants: vibraphonist Stefon Harris, saxophonist David Sanchez and trumpeter Christian Scott played an inspiring and exciting set at Yoshis, Oakland. Not only did they play at the top of their respective game with imagination, fire and energy but their distinctive styles and personalities made watching them a lot of fun. I followed watching that phenomenal show with the rare appearance of Sade plus another headliner that opened for her, John Legend at Oakland's Oracle Arena this past Friday night. Sade was in splendid voice, looking beautiful in gorgeous dresses and genuinely happy to be performing on stage. Backed by a tight band led by her three original partners: guitarist/saxophonist Stuart Matthewman, bassist Paul Denman and keyboardist Andrew Hale, Sade soared through her classic material as well as her newer songs. I found the newer material moodier and darker although I loved the stunning start of her show with "Soldier Of Love". John Legend was a crowd pleaser with his sexy, soulful voice, presence and performance. He was eye candy for the ladies and a dynamic entertainer who knows how to work an audience.

Tempo Latino 2011

While I was was Europe a few weeks ago, I returned to the Tempo Latino Festival. It's the largest outdoor festival devoted to Salsa and Latin Music in Europe based in the little town of Vic-Fezensac, France. Wow...what a line-up this year! Headliner Ruben Blades played a 2 1/2 hour set loaded with crowd favorites as "Pedro Navaja", "Juan Pachanga" and "Plastico" to name a few. Panama's finest Roberto Delgado's Orchestra with special guest trombonist Jimmy Bosch backed Blades. There were musical especially on "Plantacion Adentro" featuring a fiery exchange between Bosch and trumpeter Juan Lopez. Renowned Columbian Paris-based sonero Yuri Buenaventura thrilled the sold out Friday night crowd with his thrilling vocals, dynamic band and great music! Puerto Rican legend Willie Rosario brought his tight orchestra to play his classic dance music such as "El Callejero" and "Lluvia". Plena Libre, Grupo Fantasma, Bomba Estereo, Quantic y Su Combo Barbaro and Zulu 90.3 were also featured in the main concerts at the plaza de toros. Fine Cuban and European based bands were featured at 3 different venues in the grounds. The Conga was the hot after hours night spot each night. Highlights included the irresistible son of Cuba's own Septeto Santiaguero, the exciting French salsa dura band Salsafon with vocalist Rafael Quintero (uncle of percussionists Luisito and Roberto Quintero), the Big Band Cote Sud expertly performed Beny More classics and Cumbia Chicharra's spirited repertoire of Cumbia, Timba and Salsa. DJ's included one of Barcelona's best DJ Jacoviche and Salsa/World music selector Ricardo Da Forza. My good friend and Tempo Latino legend Enrique Romero "El Molestoso" didn't attend due to serious health issues. I missed his spirit and camaraderie as I have good memories of DJing and hanging with Enrique at last year's festival. He was sorely missed by many including promoter Eric Duffau and staff. Get better fast, amigo!!

Back To Reality!

I just got sick right before I came back from Europe last week. I missed the San Jose Jazz Festival, the phenomenal debut of Wil Campa y Su Gran Union at Stern Grove, most of Outside Lands and other noteworthy gigs! I worked at Cafe Cocomo with Julio Bravo last Saturday but I wasn't 100 percent yet but the music was good. I also didn't sound 100 percent on the radio since my engineer didn't follow the instructions to run my pre recorded radio program...oh, oh all right! However good things are down the pike...I'm sharing a nite of fine music at Cafe Cocomo with the sounds of Avance (who are also fun and a fine band with great singers..and Karl Perrazzo is their secret weapon) on Thursday night, August 18th...I'm ready to play! Maikal Blanco y Su Salsa Mayor, one of Cuba's hottest Timba/Salsa orchestras are slated to play at Cocomo in October. If that wasn't enough...SF Jazz Fest promises the dynamic Daniela Mercury and hot Miami based band Tiempo Libre among the heavies in this year's lineup. I've been back to work and it's been sweating bullets...getting back to work is a mother after vacation.

Afrocubism Brings Out The Sun!

Afrocubism brought out the sun at Stern Grove this past Sunday. It was overcast and somewhat cold at the lovely Sigmund Stern Grove for this free KPFA co-sponsored show. The group of Cuban and Malian music icons known as Afrocubism featuring Buena Vista Social Club's singer/guitarist Eliades Ochoa, renowned kora master Toumani Diabate and Ngoni (string instrument similar to a lute) god Bassekou Kouyate took the crowd who was already riled up by opening act Pellejo Seco to the next level.

From the opening notes of their catchy "Mali Cuba", the engaging, seductive blend of Cuban and African music performed by the 12 piece Afrocubism ensemble entranced listeners, delighted dancers and bowled over skeptics with their joyous hypnotic melodies and sheer virtuosity. They generously stretched out their songs to feature the members of their great band and to showcase the principal players which included Kasse Mady Diabate's vocals, Djelimady Tounkara's infectious guitar work and Fode Lassana Diabate's balafon which anchored the sound.

The show ended up being a love fest between the group and audience. This group's musical concept was the original idea that brought Ry Cooder to Cuba to record with the Malian based musicians but it never happened since the Africans never showed up. Ry got the assistance of Juan De Marcos who recruited the musicians and vocalists who ended up creating the Buena Vista Social Club sessions and the rest is history. Finally last year, the Afrocubism concept was recorded in Cuba and released to world wide acclaim. If you missed the show at Stern Grove, you make your own party by picking up their fine recording "Afrocubism" on the World Circuit/Nonesuch label.

Salute to Benny Velarde

Renowned timbalero Bayardo "Benny" Velarde was honored at Yoshi's in Oakland before a packed house of friends, musicians, dancers and long time fans. Velarde, 81, a mainstay of the San Francisco Bay Area scene for more than five decades since his start with Cal Tjader is known as the leader of his own orchestra since the 70's. The evening was organized as a benefit to help Benny pay his medical bills as a result of four operations to fight his recurring throat cancer. Benny has no medical insurance, a common occupational hazard that has plagued other fellow artists who work in music as a profession. At Yoshis, the music was sublime thanks to veteran trombonist Al Bent and his Quintenscencia Latin Jazz band primarily made up of Velarde alumni and Benny leading an all-star version of his long running Super Combo orchestra. Special guests included Orestes Vilato, Louie Romero, Roger Glenn, Monchy Esteves and Sal Nunez. The vibe was incredible at Yoshi's as some of the audience were able to express their love and appreciation to Benny on stage for his years in show business. I had the honor of co-emceeing the event with KCSM's own Jesse "Chuy" Varela. It was an unforgettable evening!

Bataan's Back In Town!

It was so sweet to see the legendary Latin soul man Joe Bataan at the S.F. Yoshi's this past Saturday night which happened to be my birthday. Bataan solidly connected with the predominately older audience who knew his songs and demonstrated their idol worship by singing along or shaking their heads to his classic material. Bataan responded with a rousing performance that featured hits from his career such as "I Wish You Love" and "When Sunny Gets Blue" along with a few surprises such as his rendition of "Sad Girl" which transported me back to junior high school slow jams for a moment. Dressed in a blazing red cap, Bataan was accompanied by his wife Yvonne on background vocals and backed by the tight Raza All Stars band with guest Malecio Magdaluyo on woodwinds. Joe effortlessly shifted gears from boogaloo to salsa flavored songs but he primarily showcased the Latin Soul fusion that he helped pioneer in the 1960's and led throughout the 70's. He delivered the tunes with a story or a monologue that touched the sold out Yoshi's crowd. He related his story of his rise from a gang member in prison to a successful singing career before launching into a heartfelt soul version of "The Lord's Prayer" dedicated to youth in prison. Bataan could still belt a tune as well as bring the house down with his music. Thank God that Subway Joe is still around to bring us the "salsoul".

From Benin To Oakland

Benin born, Paris based world music star Angelique Kidjo is a dynamo of a performer. She proved it and more last Friday at the Paramount Theater in Oakland as part of a dream bill with Senegalese superstar Youssou N'Dour. She walked on the Paramount stage to roaring applause before she even sang one note. Kidjo was energetic, charismatic and embodied joy throughout her short set. She seduced the packed crowd from the first note with her warmth, distinctive powerful voice and exuberant dance moves. The crowd gave into Angelique fever by dancing, singing-a-long and responding to her commands during her repertoire of catchy hook driven songs. Her tight, supple band of just electric/acoustic guitar, drums, bass and percussion provided ample beat-driven African pop-rn'b-world fusion which propelled the music and locked in with her voice. By the time Kidjo ended her set, she had the stage filled with dancing patrons trying to keep up with her intense energy. Kidjo took it all in with good humor and was enjoying the participation of the crowd. It was an excellent performance from one of my favorite world music stars. The show was one of the last concerts for the SF Jazz Spring Season co-sponsored by KPFA Radio.

Maracalicious

I was lucky this week to catch the great flautist/bandleader Orlando "Maraca" Valle and his Cuban based band on opening night this week at Yoshis in San Francisco. One thing that I love about Maraca is his sophisticated take on timba, cuban salsa and latin jazz...always modern and on the cutting edge with a strong foundation in traditional Afro-Cuban music. He is truly a musician's musician who plays several instruments and has produced many recordings. Ever since the time that I first saw him at the famed New Morning in Paris with Irakere in 1990, Maraca always impresses with his sheer virtuosity on the flute, his chosen instrument. His clear musical direction as a solo artist and bandleader encompasses a variety of styles. For this tour, his excellent band of top notch musicians and charismatic vocalists includes the superb Alfred Thompson on sax. He had the Yoshi's crowd mesmerized whether he led his band on an intense Latin Jazz number or a relentlessly swinging timba romp. I had an opportunity to speak to Maraca backstage after his exhilarating performance. He said that he has a new recording coming out in Cuba but also has plans to release another recording with his current band. If you didn't have the chance to catch him this time, don't miss him the next time because he is truly one of those artists who have to catch live!

Is It Fun Yet 2011?

As we head towards another Summer, the reality of our economic situation pops up in different but telling ways. Do you notice that it's hard to get a break these days? Remember the good old days before the economy started going down the tubes that all the prices of everything has gone up? Also it's hard to find those generous extras from most restaurants...don't you hate it when you go to a restaurant that you dine from time to time and find that the portions of food are skimpier but you're paying the same price as before? It's hard to go to that endangered species called a record store to find that hard-to-get cd. Now you almost always have to go on-line to either order the cd with the jewel case or you download the recording but you have to hassle to get the cover art! Such is life in 2011 where having a full time job with benefits is the sexy status symbol. If you don't believe me, ask one of your friends who are laid off or looking for work.

Summer Heats Up In the Bay

I wanted to note all the fine music that is coming to the San Francisco Bay Area during the next few weeks. Renowned flautist/bandleader/composer/arranger Orlando "Maraca" Valle will be visiting us this week on Wednesday through Friday over at Yoshi's in San Francisco. He will be leading his Cuban based band performing his distinctive style of cuban salsa, timba and latin jazz. He usually leads a top notch band so look out for the musical fireworks! The annual El Dia De San Juan scholarship benefit concert will take place at History Park in San Jose on Saturday, June 25 featuring the sounds of 2 L.A. based bands Angel Lebron y Sabor Latino and Tabaco Y Ron. My radio station KPFA is sponsoring three great free shows at the annual Stern Grove Festival which takes place every Sunday during the summer at the beautiful Sigmund Stern Grove, 19th Avenue & Sloat Blvd in San Francisco. The shows include the Jazz Mafia Symphony with renowned rapper Chali 2Na formerly of Ozomatli and Jurassic 5 on June 26; Afrocubism, an all-star collaboration between Cuban and Malian music icons plus the Bay's own Pellejo Seco on July 10 and famed Spanish musician/producer Javier Limon and vocal sensation Buika plus Brazilian songstress Luisa Maita on August 14. For more information, visit www.sterngrove.org

It's Already June..I had my Carnaval Blast!

It's rainy June in the SF Bay Area. Carnaval SF during Memorial Day weekend in the bay is already a memory. This year I was asked by SFCAT who has been producing the event for the past two years to emcee their 17th Street main stage and serve as a consultant with their entertainment committee. The entertainment that was picked this year led to two days of exciting shows focusing on local gold with great salsa, Brazilian, funk, Latin Pop, reggaeton and world music bands exemplified by fine performances by the Venezuelan Music Project, the 19 piece Pacific Mambo Orchestra, Ronkat and Katdelic, Aquarella and Grupo Samba Rio, Dos Four, Mazacote, Panjea, Samba Da and others. Unfortunately, the rain came late on Saturday afternoon to wash out the scheduled performances of Team Bahia, Avance and L.A'.s Very Be Careful. The exciting performances of La Moderna Tradicion, Too Smooth and Sandy Perez were cut short by the police at the end of the event which marred a great day of parade, sun and fun. It was great to say hello to so many friends and public that made Carnaval so special this year.

Welcome To My Mambo

The 19 piece Pacific Mambo Orchestra has been making quite a splash in the SF Bay Area since starting their Monday night residency at Cafe Cocomo, one of SF's major salsa palaces last November. Led by pianist Christian Tumalan and trumpeter Stefan Kuehn, this mighty band has been making Monday night a scene. Not that Tumalan and Kuehn are not busy...Tumalan leads Montuno Swing, a smaller band that's been making quite a buzz and Kuehn, part of Mazacote, an explosive band led by former Willie Colon timbalero Louie Romero. Pacific Mambo has been boasting all star players in their ranks such as timbalero Karl Perrazo of Santana, vocalist-percussionist Omar Ledesma, saxophonist Pete Cornell and trombonist Mike Rinta. Not only are they playing classic mambo and latin jazz from the Tito Puente and Machito songbook but they are performing original material as well. The idea of maintaining a big band of that size in this day and age of tough economic times is amazing but also inspiring. The band was recently part of a live broadcast on my Saturday night program Con Sabor on KPFA 94.1 FM. They were swinging, exciting and powerful. However, Pacific Mambo Orchestra is not the only mambo in town. Bandleader Tito Garcia has been leading his smaller Orquesta Internacional for many years playing classic mambos and salsa. But the sight of seeing 13 horns wailing on stage has been driving a new and devoted audience to spend their Monday nights at Cocomo.

Back From Vacation to Grammy Reality

I'm back everyone from my blog vacation. A lot has happened since we last checked in. Latin Jazz and 30 other categories have been dropped from the Grammys. A big blow to the Latin Jazz genre that ranges from established giants as 9 time Grammy Award winner Eddie Palmieri to young upstarts such as Alfredo Rodriguez who have been making important recordings that has contributed to a current world wide Latin Jazz renaissance. Palmieri and percussionist-educator Bobby Sanabria in New York and locally, John Santos are leading the fight to have the category restored. The category was established in 1996 when Palmieri was governor of the N.Y. chapter. N.A.R.A.S., the academy that oversees the Grammys claims that there weren't enough music submissions from the categories to justify their existence. But the Academy's motives are being questioned due to lack of notice and transparency in dropping the categories without first informing its members according to Santos. It's suspicious that this major decision comes on the heels of the Best New Artist category being awarded to jazz wunderkind Esperanza Spalding instead of massive teen idol Justin Beiber. The Grammys were full of surprises this year much to the apparent chagrin of the pop music establishment. Beiber's manager took out a full page ad in the N.Y. Times criticizing the Grammys stating that they were out of touch. The Academy then reacted weeks later with the announcement of the category changes. The Academy's decision sets up a policy that supposably now only the best of the jazz genre (including Latin Jazz artists) will have the opportunity to win the "real" jazz category. However that argument doesn't take into account that the streamlining of categories will make it harder for deserving artists to get the recognition and honor of a Grammy nomination for their work. Santos and members of the Bay Area's Latin Jazz community vow to fight until the category is restored. For more information on this issue...go to grammywatch.info.

Mars Volta's Omar Rodriguez-Lopez Live in SF

Mars Volta figurehead, musical director and guitarist Omar Rodriguez-Lopez turned the Great American Music Hall upside down with his blazing, cerebral brand of prog hard rock. Joined by his Mars Volta counterpart vocalist/lyricist Cedric Baxter-Zavala, Rodriguez-Lopez spearheaded a group of tight musical virtuosos. The bespectacled Rodriguez-Lopez sporting an english style cap, who looks no older than 22 years old, impressed the crowd with his stunning forward thinking guitar solos, astonishing technique and musical vision. Baxter-Zavala, now sporting a clean cut look with short straight hair and his beard shaved off, dramatically acted out the songs, sang his heart out boasting with a voice reminiscent of Led Zepellin era Robert Plant and pulled his front man rock star moves with sheer intensity. They would take the audience on a melodic prog space ride and then pull the crowd into a left turn with a foray into avant funk. The in-sync instrumental ensemble who complimented Rodriguez-Lopez consisted of a mix of musicians, some from Mars Volta who played the two keyboards/electronics, bass and drums. The group mostly played new fresh material in preparation of their upcoming date at the Coachella Festival.

Los Muñequitos de Matanzas

On Monday, April 4th, the San Francisco Bay Area was treated to an extraordinary spectacle of Afro-Cuban rumba by the renowned Cuban drum and dance troupe Los Muñequitos de Matanzas. The first stop of their U.S. tour, San Francisco's Mission High School Auditorium was packed with a sold out crowd of 1500 people who were treated to two hours of authentic afro-cuban folklore. Los Muñequitos de Matanzas under the direction of dancer Diosdado Ramos dazzled the crowd with their dynamic presentation. Their 6 dancers dressed in bright red and yellow costumes took the crowd on a journey which showcased the rhythms and dance of various styles of rumba: the yambu, columbia and guaguanco. The male dancers showed off innovations of the modern day rumba such as tap dancing while the females added their fierce sensuous flavor to the show. The music provided by the five talented percussionists and five vocalists was soul stirring. Their dynamic performance transported me to the solares (courtyards) of Cuba where the rumba is played traditionally. Los Muñequitos also brought out a young boy that joined the troupe near the end of the performance. He danced at the encouragement of the dancers. He is part of the new generation of rumberos who will ensure that the rumba will be preserved for future generations. Big thanks to the SF International Arts Festival and all the Mission community folks who presented the show. KPFA co-sponsored this historic show.

Paulo FG keeps the Timba light burning!

The famed Yoshi's Jazz club in Oakland was taken over by timba fever this past weekend. The occasion was the presentation of Timba/Cuban salsa idol Paulo FG and his orchestra La Elite. Paulo FG made the Yoshi's audience wait for 40 minutes until he finally stepped on the stage. However, the wait was worth it. Paulo lived up to his reputation as a consummate showman who led his tight band with an abundance of energy, style and power. Starting with one of his signature songs "De La Havana", he immediately seduced the crowd with his strong vocals and coordinated dance moves with his stylish co-ed coro section. The dynamic energy from Paulo and his singers was contagious as the audience enthusiastically responded with hands in the air, call and responses and dancing to all of his repertoire. His mighty orchestra responded by slamming down their sophisticated timba and cuban salsa wall of sound. By the time that his set ended past Midnight, the crowd left Yoshi's sweaty, smiling and satisfied into the night.

Filosofia Caribena

The Bay Area's renaissance man John Santos presents his sextet and special guests in the debut of their commissioned work "Filosofia Caribena" that promises to be a highlight of the current SF Jazz Spring Season on Saturday, April 2, 8 pm at the Herbst Theater, Van Ness & MacAllister Sts, SF. Over a year and a half in the making, this work inspired by Caribbean culture, history and reality, will combine a combination of various elements such as Afro-Cuban and Puerto-Rican folklore, Caribbean rhythms, Latin Jazz, Dance and Spoken word. Special invited guests include trumpeter-vocalist Jerry Medina of Batacumbele fame, renowned Cuban dancer Ramon Ramos Alayo and spoken word artist Rico Pabon. Santos just completed a community based fund raising campaign that was successful in raising the money required to secure a $10,000 matching grant. The first volume of the project will be released on cd in May, the second volume will be released sometime next year. Santos was a recent guest on my program "Con Sabor" and sneak previewed one of the tracks from Filosofia Caribena, the explosive "La Rumba Me Lleva". Keep your plans open for this world premiere on April 2nd!

Quick Tips/New Latin DJ Music

As music director of a major market radio station, I receive a tremendous amount of new cds, mp3 and demos every week. Latin music has always had its share of hybrids and sub genres due to inventive DJ's and producers who have experimented and help create the new buzz in music. Check out the new music being created by DJ/Producers such as Dub Sonata, DJ Afro (of Los Amigos Invisibles) and Tremor of the ZZK Collective. These DJ's are expanding the boundaries and reinventing dubstep, electronica and latin alternative in the process.

Old Salseros Don't Die

On the advice of a colleague in the business, I visited the web site of veteran salsero/artist Henry Fiol. Henry who gained prominence in the 70's as part of Saoco and later with his series of highly regarded albums on the SAR label, has made available two of his recent recordings on his web site. His newest effort "Salsa Subterreanea" (Underground Salsa) showcases all new material which is split into his classic sound of Cuban based son montuno, salsa dura and contemporary songs designed to update his sound and appeal to a wider audience. The good news is that Henry Fiol still is in fine voice and sounds like he was having fun making this recording. The music is expertly played with passion and guts. I liked the son montunos and salsa dura material more than the contemporary material but I did like the song "Dias Mejores Vendran". Check it out on his web site: www.henryfiol.com. Old salseros don't die but you do have to make an effort to find them these days!

Prince Hangover

I've had a hangover for over a week. A musical hangover from attending the Prince concert last Thursday at the Oakland Oracle Arena. Performing from a huge stage shaped as his symbol that took the temporary place of his name in the 90's, Prince loudly exploded on the colored fogged out stage with his sheer guitar virtuosity. He generously performed close to 3 hours of his greatest hits and crowd favorites. A master of his craft, Prince flanked by a stunning band and 3 dynamic female vocalists turned the arena into party central which also included a spectacle of anthems and slow jams. Guest star Sheila E. was elevated from underneath the stage with her timbale set and led the crowd with a rousing rendition of her 1984 hit "The Glamourous Life". She later joined Prince on "Erotic City" and "A Love Bizarre" and performed with Prince for the rest of the concert. Funk Bass legend Larry Graham was featured on a segment which included tasty versions of Sly & The Family Stone hits along with his furious bass slapping. Prince went deep into his repertoire and played such gems such as "Delirious", "I Wanna Be Your Lover", "Purple Rain", "Little Red Corvette" among others. Prince that was the wizard of this great show singing unforgettable songs, playing impeccably and taking all who attended to a higher plane through his music.

The Art Of Dancing, Cuban Style

The 3rd Annual Salsa Rueda Festival took place this past weekend at San Francisco's Hotel Whitcomb. Produced by the SF based Cuban dance instructor team of Nick Van Eyck and Serena Wong, the festival offered workshops with internationally renowned instructors teaching subjects ranging from rumba to danzon to rueda de casino from beginners to advanced dancers. The festival featured cocktail parties, live dance performances, the Bay Area's best timba dj's: Walt Digz, Antonio and Dark Rum and live music from the likes of Miami's Timbalive, SF's own timba superband Team Bahia and Rumbache. Even though it was pouring rain outside on Friday night, it was steamy inside of the Whitcomb's ballroom whose dance floor was packed with wall to wall dancers groovin' to the sounds of Team Bahia, DJ Antonio and Samba dancers celebrating Carnaval! What a scene. Vendors were selling their wares from music/dance videos from Cuba to unisex clothing. A few feet away, oblivious dancers were busy gracefully grinding their bodies to a steamy Los Van Van timba mix. San Francisco has become a mecca for Cuban music in the United States. The Salsa Rueda Festival exemplifies this movement with style!

Salsa 2011 Style anyone?

Sonido Criminal is a new band from New York determined to keep their roots grounded to the bad boy salsa dura of the 70's while forging new ground in 2011. Their debut cd "Crime Payz" is an homage in image and style to the classic Willie Colon early greatest hits compilation of the 60's and early 70's "Crime Pays". Vocalist Carlos Mojica leads this pack of young lions who play ferocious gutsy salsa as if their life depended on it but they don't limit themselves just to slam it on every track. They do their salsa in English spin on the Wham! 80's chestnut "Careless Whisper" as Mojica interprets the sweetness of the George Michael vocal with a raw swinging edge. Don't worry there is plenty of powerful bite on the cd as displayed on the track "Rumba En El Cielo" that gives due to the ancestors of this music such as Lavoe and Maelo. Sonido Criminal has started 2011 with a big bang for all the aficionados and dancers of this music.

Bittersweet Moments with Bobby Hutcherson

I caught a show that reminded me that you do have to catch older great artists while they are still alive. Case in point is the Bobby Hutcherson show that I caught at Yoshi's in Oakland. The occasion was his 70th Birthday celebration. Now, I haven't seen Bobby in a long time. I decided to go since I had the opportunity to see him at the last minute. I was in for a shocker! A thin, frail Bobby Hutcherson got on stage with tubes from his nostrills connected to a breathing apparatus. My heart sank to see him in this state of health. Although he seemed in great spirits, his body language spoke volumes of his medical condition. He played beautifully. However, his trademark long fluid expressions on the vibes are now replaced by short tasty solos augmented by his great band. This was still first class jazz tastefully performed by these pros. I was later told by my friend at Yoshis that Bobby is suffering from emphysema. I was happy and sad to have been there in attendance. Great artists are human like all of us....and like all of us, they continue to pay their dues.

Jorge Drexler triumphs at Mezzanine

There were high expectations for a rare concert appearance by Academy award winning singer/songwriter Jorge Drexler who was scheduled to appear at San Francisco's trendy Mezzanine night club in late January. Drexler who appeared close to half an hour late was met by loud cheers from an adoring packed crowd who were not disappointed. Backed by a tight, versatile band, he performed an intriguing repertoire of songs taken his various recordings that ranged from his breakthrough "Eco" to his latest cd "Amar La Trama". Drexler was visibly moved by the audience who knew the words to his songs and were singing along with him especially on his a-capella version of his award winning composition "Al Otro Lado Del Rio" from the film The Motorcycle Diaries. He was oozing charm, wit and vulnerability as he was telling stories and declaring his love for San Francisco. He seemed right at home on the Mezzanine stage. Although he didn't play all the favorites in his considerable body of work, he performed enough memorable songs to connect with the audience in a profound way. There was a great vibe at Mezzanine that evening. Hopefully, we will see Drexler perform here more often after this fine show that was produced by La Bohemia Productions and Jaffe Events.

Great new music from John Santos and the Coro Folklorico Kindembo

I have been listening to great new music this past month. Among the gems on my current playlist is "La Esperanza", the latest cd from John Santos Y Su Coro Folklorico Kindembo. This fine recording showcases exceptional Afro-Cuban folklore, son and plena augmented with guest appearances by Jimmy Bosch, Lazaro Gallaraga, Jose Clausell, Little Johnny Rivero, Anthony Carillo, Roberto Borrell, Jesus Diaz, Fito Reinoso and others. Santos and Kindembo pay tribute to some of the masters and ancestors that have influenced them with dedications to Francisco Aquabella, Papin, Tito Puente, Julito Collazo, Victor Pantoja, Merceditas Valdes and other greats. La Esperanza is full of solid renditions of original music ranging from son and plena to traditional rumbas. The performances by Santos and the impressive Kindembo ensemble are rich, powerful and inspired. The recording features noted rumberos such as Sandy Perez, Harold Muniz and Javier Navarette. Strong vocal work from singers Willie Ludwig and Orlando Torriente (who shines on "Para Ser Un Buen Sonero") who are associated with Kindembo from various eras. The strong coro features Ismael Rodriguez, Reynalda Nunez, Jose Luis Gomez and Beatrice Muniz. This music is a homage to the roots of modern popular Caribbean based music such as Latin Jazz, Salsa, Timba and many others. Well worth checking out!!

Back To Business

Don Omar, Cali Aleman, Victor Manuelle, Elvis Crespo and India are all going to pay San Francisco a visit during the next few months. This should be a bonanza for all the fans who love these stars of Reggaeton, Merengue and Salsa. With the exception of Fania All Star/Guayacan veteran Cali Aleman, all of these artists are part of the musical vocabulary of younger generations who listen to these respective genres...some of whom are livin' large with their disposable incomes, iphones, twitter accounts and facebook posts. A large majority of folks do not buy full length recordings but rather download single songs. It will be interesting to see how are the music industry especially independent artists will survive. This is why we have to continue to support our favorite artists by buying their cds or downloading their music. Also checking them out when ever they perform live will also assure their survival in this tough global economy. And just maybe...some of the seasoned vets that we know and love will have a platform to visit us once in a while.

Happy New Year!

Usually I'm excited about sharing information about new releases, concert dates and what I'm up to in the New Year...there is plenty of that coming up in future communications. However, I am disturbed and troubled about the tragic shootings in Arizona this past Saturday. As a radio host and media professional, I am upset about the misuse of power and influence that these so-called messiahs of the airwaves spew on gullible segments of the public. Whether it's distorted rhetoric such as Sarah Palin's bullseye targets (which tragically came true this past Saturday) or Rush Limbaugh's defense of on-air hateful political evangelism, we are living in dangerous times here in the U.S.. It will be up to each of us to challenge these "spokespeople" at every opportunity...the work starts now.