Ska Cubano
Cumbancha   www.cumbancha.com

Sometimes what seems like an outrageous idea can also be so natural you wonder why nobody did it years ago - as in the case of Ska Cubano, who  mixes two popular rhythms and sounds of the Caribbean - the ska (pre-reggae) sound of Jamaica with the son-based musics of Cuba. The result? More fun than salsa or reggae.  You may not immediately know how to dance to this project, but if you don't find yourself wanting to dance and shake your body you must be dead. 

AY CARAMBA!  is the second recording from this London-based group (and now they push the envelope further by incorporating cumbia music from Columbia into the mix). The players come from all over the world, especially Cuba and Jamaica. Of course, before the Cuban revolution, Cuban performers were influenced by musics outside of Cuba like calypso, swing, jazz, etc.

 The music of Ska Cubano attempts to answer the question "what would have happened in Cuba and other nearby islands if the revolution hadn't happened?"

 Another exciting note about AY CARAMBA! is the debut of a new label, 'Cumbancha', from the former heard of A&R at the Putumayo label, the most successful ethnic music label of all time. Putumayo will be co-operating with Cumbancha in distributing and promoting its artists. Sounds like a win-win situation for everyone, including the artists and the listening public!