Juju’s Bar & Stage in East London has teamed up with Sambroso Sambroso to launch the Cuban Sundays Live Music Series, a seven-month celebration of Cuban timba and salsa moderna. Featuring some of the most celebrated Cuban vocalists performing alongside Orquesta Sambroso, a London-based ensemble of Cuban virtuosos, this series promises to deliver an electrifying live music experience.
Starting in January 2025, the events will be held on the last Sunday of each month through July, presenting a lineup of renowned artists. Each performer brings their unique flair to timba, a dynamic fusion of Cuban son, Afro-Cuban rumba, and funk.
A Star-Studded Lineup
- January: Angel Yos, Paris-based innovator known for his work with La Mecánica Loca and Vamos Hacerlo.
- February: Alcibiades Durruthy López, renowned singer and guitarist.
- March: Dayan Carrera Fernández, a leading voice in modern Cuban music.
- April: Laraine Cañizares, frontwoman of the iconic band Klímax.
- May: Teddy Fuentes, celebrated for his work with Bumbata.
- June & July: Two surprise guest stars, guaranteed to captivate fans.
Despite timba’s global appeal, live performances are rare in the UK due to its demanding setup, requiring at least ten musicians. The project’s musical director, Hammadi Rencurrell Valdés, a GRAMMY-winning percussionist, explains, “This is the music we live and breathe. Now, London audiences can experience it live.”
The orchestra is a powerhouse of talent, featuring luminaries like bassist Frank Portuondo, percussionist Oscar Martinez, and flutist Ludys Hernández. Most members are graduates of Cuba’s renowned music education system, ensuring a level of artistry that is both technically precise and passionately authentic.
Oreste “Sambroso” Noda, founder of Sambroso Sambroso and a prominent conguero, highlights the unique opportunity this series presents: “We’ve created a space where Cuban music thrives in London. The city’s audiences love timba, and we’re bringing it to them in its truest form.”
With the support of Turns Projects, this collaboration bridges the gap between London-based Cuban musicians and continental Europe-based Cuban vocalists.
Cuban Sundays Live Music Series is the last Sunday of each month from 26 January 2025 at Juju’s Bar & Stage, Ely’s Yard, 15 Hanbury St, London E1 6QR
Tickets at dice.fm/event/yovqpr-cuban-sundays-live-music-series-26th-jan-jujus-bar-stage-london-tickets
Author: World Music Central News Room
World music news from the editors at World Music Central