5 Afro-Peruvian Classics In Anticipation of Chincha Sundays, Bringing Afro-Peru to Shoreditch This Autumn
01 September, 2017This weekend, Ceviche Old St are launching Chincha Sundays, a new monthly free event bringing Afro-Peruvian music to Shoreditch with live performances, DJs, food and drink. Inspired by the informal gatherings of Lima’s underground peñas, Ceviche Old St are aiming to bring a bit of Afro-Peruvian flavour to London (find out more about the events on Facebook).
And in anticipation of the first event this Sunday (from midday until 6pm) we have asked Peruvian percussionist Kieffer Santander – who plays in the London-based band Lokandes and who will be involved in all the events – to pick out five of his favourite Afro-Peruvian classics, letting us know why he chose each one.
1. “Se Me Van Los Pies” by Susana Baca (Festejo)
From the queen of modern Afro Peru, this is a song that combines two different rhythmic stiles, festejo and funk, and culminates in a tremendous drum solo.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r9tOR43j2PM
2. “Ritmo, Color y Sabor” by Eva Ayllon (Festejo)
Translated into English as ‘rhythm, colour and taste’ this tune is one of the classic festejos with lots of energy in the rhythmic section from beginning to end with lyrics describing the typical life of the black African diaspora since their arrival in Peru.
3. “Ritmo de Negros” by Eva Ayllon (Festejo)
Another festejo classic by a living legend of Afro Peruvian traditions. Eva has recorded over 20 albums and been nominated for 6 Latin Grammys. Such a talent and now residing in the USA.
4. “No Valentin”. by Pepe Vasquez (Landó)
This tune uses a landò rhythm from the criolla tradition, which combines both African and Spanish influences and is still very popular in Peru today.
5. “Tinkalamina” by Novalima (Festejo/electronic)
Probably the most influential of the modern Peruvian cross-over acts having made themselves known internationally when they broke out in 2002 with their self titled album. It’s a fusion of festejo rhythms mixed with electronica, a pioneering cocktail of sounds that is still relevant today.
Chincha Sundays will be taking place at Ceviche Old Street (2 Baldwin Street, London, EC1V 9NU) on September 3rd, October 1st and November 5th from midday until 6pm each time. The first event this Sunday will feature Kieffer Santander and friends, as well as Movimientos’ Cal Jader. You can find out more at facebook.com/events/175644742978505
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