Los Pleneros del Truco is a plena group from the coastal town of Cataño, Puerto Rico. It was founded in 1981 by percussionist Hector Valentin and the Maysonet brothers, Miguel, Joe and Ray.
For two decades, Truco, led by Hector Valentin, has been recognized as one of the leading ensembles in the history of Bomba y Plena, the traditional music of the Afro-Puerto Rican people. The distinguishing characteristic of Plena is the battery of three handheld drums which loosely resemble the tambourine in design. Each drum is pitched differently and played by a different member, the ensemble effect is stunning when left in the hands of men like the Maysonet Bros. who are the core of the Truco ensemble. The other distinguishing element are the group harmonies that these men engage in while playing these complex rhythmic passages.
Bomba y Plena is in general music of celebration and this spirit of alegria (happiness) informs every note that is played by this inspired organization and its humorous and profound leader, Hector Valentin.
Los Pleneros del Truco joined forces with another band, Zaperoko, to form Truco & Zaperoko.
Discography:
Tumbador y La Campana (1995)
Author: Angel Romero
Angel Romero y Ruiz has dedicated his life to musical exploration. His efforts included the creation of two online portals, worldmusiccentral.org and musicasdelmundo.com. In addition, Angel is the co-founder of the Transglobal World Music Chart, a panel of world music DJs and writers that celebrates global sounds. Furthermore, he delved into the record business, producing world music studio albums and compilations. His works have appeared on Alula Records, Ellipsis Arts, Indígena Records and Music of the World.