Rodrigo Y Gabriela and C.U.B.A.

friday 13 july 2012
Gent Jazz Festival (Podium)
Rodrigo Sanchez & Gabriela Quintero (guitar), Leonardo Castellini (saxophone), Amik Guerra (trumpet), Alex Wilson (piano); Alfredo Echavarria (bass), Edwin Sanz (drums).

A sold-out European tour this spring, praiseworthy comments after their performance at Cirque Royal in February and the release of a new album titled ‘Area 52’. A few years ago Rodrigo y Gabriela were already present at Gent Jazz Festival where they were one of the unexpected surprises of the festival. Normally performing in duo, they will be accompanied by a Cuban band this summer.

The two nimble-fingered guitarists produce a sound that is hard to define. It is both world as rock music, with Spanish and classical influences added to it. The remarkable diligence in their music arises from their passion for metal music. The duo started performing in Irish pubs seven years ago, where they played covers of well-known hard rock songs. Covers from Tool, Led Zeppelin, Jimi Hendrix… and metal influences can still be present in their performances.

Their fifth album ‘Area 52’ was recorded at the Caribbean Islands, where acoustic guitars mingled with Cuban influences. It was the first time they cooperated with another group of musicians. C.U.B.A., a Cuban orchestra consisting of 13 members, comprises some of the best musicians hailing from Havana. ‘Area 52’ contains reproductions of nine former released songs.

As a duo they were able to play with more energy than multiple rock band. With little help from this Cuban band, their dynamic performances will be taken to a whole new level!