Sierra Maestra

Summer came early to Shoreham last night courtesy of the latest incarnation of Cuba’s finest exponents of old-time son music. The serenading vocals echoed by the singing trumpet and backed with a tight percussion section kept the crowd captivated from the opening sun-kissed number. The blend of Afro-Cuban and Salsa rhythms was infectious, while guitarist Emilio Ramos delivered several Django-esque solos before duelling with his trumpeter son. The three lead singers complimented each other excellently, always singing over that relentless 1 – 2, 1–2-3 beat and all members were allowed space to solo during an extended jam session. Caliente!

Ropetackle Centre, Shoreham-by-Sea, 1 March 2012

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