PHOTOS: EDDY GUTIERREZ | Two months ago, the CubaNOLA Arts Collective presented an incredible set by the Cuban band Interactivo Esencial at the New Orleans Jazz Market. Dancers, Cuban music lovers, and anyone interested in hearing the latest sounds emanating from the island nation should head back to the wonderful space on Oretha Castle Haley Blvd for what should be another amazing performance by Telmary and Habana Sana. Show time is 9 PM and the Saints game will be televised. La Cubana food truck will be out all evening for the game and the concert.
Every year at Jazz Fest there is one act that everyone is talking and writing about as the post fest reviews come in. This year it was Telmary and her amazing band. If you missed it, here’s what I had to say, “The best of the fest for the first weekend goes to Cuban singer and rapper Telmary. Her band, Habana Sana, featured a female conga player; a female pianist/flutist/vocalist, and two backing vocalists/percussionists along with rock band instrumentation.
The energy was through the roof as the drum-tight band percolated over her mile-a-minute rapping. She had a few things to say in English including “I’m ready to jump for the Mardi Gras!” Looks like she’s back a few months early.
Here’s the way the CubaNOLA Arts Collective describes her performance, “From Havana, Cuba, “street poet” Telmary Díaz has emerged as a leader and trendsetter on the cutting edge of hip-hop and urban music in Cuba. If you’re a fan of any genre of Cuban music or Common or the Roots, then you’ll love what Telmary does.
You can’t help but move to her fun, funky, outrageous, outspoken, outlandish and above all conscious grooves, set to traditional and contemporary Cuban sounds. As a rapper, Telmary uses her distinctive voice, at times deep and soulful, at times fast and aggressive to proclaim a positive, empowering message that contrasts with the genre’s commercial norm.”
Tickets are available here.
