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Reggae is here with Chilean band Gondwana

Submitted by Rocksario on Tue, 2011-09-06 10:01

United Reggae Magazine recently wrote that “Gondwana is a delight to the sense with spirit moving falsetto notes, bubbling bass, hard drums, tight horns and guitars with the ability to move with ease in a sound ranging from calypso to hard rock.”  This description of the Chilean reggae band is spot on; Gondwana will definitely delight all of your senses. 

Reggae is a genre typically associated with Jamaica; however, the Bob Marley influence reached South America and has made a lively home there with bands like Los Pericos, Fabulosos Cadillacs, and Gondwana.  Since 1987, Gondwana, has brought forth a unique blend of Latin and Jamaican rhythms evidenced by their successful albums such as “Second Coming, “Made in Jamaica”, Aire de Jah”, among many others.  Gondwana typically sings about love, and societal and spiritual issues.

With over 24 years of history, the band has toured the world performing in some of the most prestigious festivals and stages including “Bob Marley Day, SummerFest, and Quilmes Rock” festival.

Their popularity is astounding when you consider that they have primarily diffused their music independently using the internet and their popular YouTube channel.  Some of their official videos have over 45 million views such as “Mi Princesa”, “Sentimiento Original”, and “Felicidad”.

Gondwana is a resilient band that has survived many years in an industry that commonly under represents Latin alternative bands.  Nevertheless, Gondwana’s hard work of promoting every show using their You Tube channel to send out invitations to their many fans, and their down-to-earth demeanor has gotten them where they are today.

Recently Gondwana, parted ways with vocalist Maxi Vargas and named their new singer as MC Jona (their 9th singer).  Their current tour of the USA includes both east and west coast shows, as well as, some first time appearances in the south.  This is their first US tour in over 11 years.

Gondwana has participated in many recent compilations including a Tribute to Bob Marley, and participated in a Los Pericos album (Pericos & Friends, 2010).  They also recently released a new album “Pincoya Calipso” which features two new songs along with re-released versions of some of their most popular hits.  Gondwana recently concluded tours of Mexico and Europe.

Current Gondwana members include I -Locks (bass), MC Jona (vocals), Yayo Loyola (drums), Leo Dread (percussion, vocals), Pancho Contreras (trumpet), Keno Fingaman (keyboard), Hugo Prado (trombone), Gato Ramos (saxophone) y Pez López (guitar).  They will be performing on 9/7/11 here at the State Theater along with local favorites Nayas, and Kickoman.  Reggae, rock, and ska await, this is definitely a show not to be missed!