"Azuquita" is more than a "little bit of sugar"! This five-piece acoustic ensemble will take you on a musical journey through traditional Cuban music. Experience the exotic rhythms of guaguanco, the insatiable son, and the feeling of bolero. Azuquita is one of the few groups in the Northwest presenting these and other Cuban genres using traditional instrumentation. Enjoy the lively blend of strings, percussion and vocals that draw on Yoruban and Spanish/Arabic traditions to create the unique Cuban sound.
Azuquita members include
Cesar Gutierrez (Puerto Rican cuatro). A native of Mazatlan, Mexico, Cesar is perhaps the only cuatro player in the Northwest.
Jaime Johnson (congas, bongo, campana). Originally from Lima, Peru, Jaime is well versed not only in Caribbean rhythms, but afro-Peruvian and Andean as well.
Jessie Marquez (vocals, guitar, güira). Jessie came to Eugene as a child from Puerto Rico. She travels regularly to Cuba and recently recorded a CD with Cuban jazz artists.
Neri Rodriguez (vocals, güiro). Neri arrived in Eugene 6 years ago from Mexico City. He comes from a family of musicians and has been playing "tropical" music all his life. Spanish speaking listeners will delight in his humorous and colorful improvisations.
Sean Peterson (acoustic bass). Sean hails from Seattle, WA with a strong background in jazz and an instinctive "feel" for the Cuban "tumbao".