FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Afro Roots Recordings presents a captivating musical journey through the evolution of the Cuban Son by the award-winning Cuban folk ensemble
Miami, FL – April 15, 2025 – The Guajiro Triangle signifies the cultural and musical convergence of three iconic cities: Miami, Havana, and Santiago de Cuba. It’s from these vibrant locales that Cortadito, South Florida’s answer to Cuba’s Buena Vista Social Club, has drawn its inspiration – and its members. The album marks the group’s first full-length release under Afro Roots Recordings, solidifying their reputation as one of the region’s most spirited and sought-after acts.
With nine original compositions, The Guajiro Triangle takes listeners on a rich, sonic journey tracing Cuban Son‘s evolution – from its roots in Santiago de Cuba to its electrifying present in Miami, with Havana serving as the essential bridge. The album opens with “Aquí Te Traigo Mi Son“, a heartfelt homage featuring celebrated Cuban pianist and composer Michelle Fragoso. This vibrant track paints a vivid picture of the Son’s origins in the eastern Cuban countryside, setting the stage for the rest of the album’s exploration.
Cortadito honors its Cuban heritage with powerful songs like the poignant opening single “A Yemayá“, featuring Latin GRAMMY-winning flutist Nestor Torres. Inspired by Yemayá, the Yoruban Orisha of the ocean, this piece offers comfort and hope in challenging times. Another standout is “Guajira en la Madrugada”, a Bolero Son collaboration with GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY award-winner Aymeé Nuviola, celebrating Cuba’s natural beauty.
Diverging from the group’s two previous releases, the songwriting credit is shared among band co-founder Julio Cesar Rodriguez, bassist Alberto Pantaleon’s father, Alberto Pantaleon Hernandez, and vocalists Humberto Upierre and his brother, Juan Upierre, and Juan Carlos Valido. The album also embraces Cortadito’s big band format, featuring a septet recording lineup that includes co-founder Jose Elias (tres), Rodriguez, Pantaleon, Upierre, Antonio “Pacha” Portuondo, Andres Polanco (percussion), and Roniel Vega (trumpet), augmented by regulars Franklin Reytor (guitar, tres, vocals, arranger) and Tony Perigo Viant (trumpet).
Love is a recurring theme throughout the album. Tracks like “Son Tus Besos”, composed by lead vocalist Upierre, inject infectious energy with its modern take on Cuban Son. The playful lyrics celebrate the intoxicating magic of a passionate kiss. Meanwhile, “Te Lo Perdiste” explores the bittersweet longing for missed opportunities in life and love.
Not afraid to push boundaries, Cortadito presents “Sin Fronteras”, a musical glimpse into a world without borders, a celebration of unity and the freedom to pursue one’s dreams. The album also features lively party anthems like “Son Sabroso”, which spotlights the Son‘s irresistible rhythms.
Alongside powerhouse collaborations with Torres, Nuviola and Fragoso, the album also features guest artist Alaina Martin from Los Tres de la Habana. Produced by Elias and mixed by Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyoncé, Mick Jagger, Enrique Iglesias), Guillermo Rodriguez, and Kiki Valera, with mastering by Jose Blanco (Natalia Lafourcade, Grupo Niche, Aerosmith), The Guajiro Triangle boasts an impressive creative team.
Cortadito invites listeners to embark on a captivating journey through the rich tapestry of Cuban Son. With its unique blend of tradition and innovation, this extraordinary release promises to leave audiences eager for more.
Be sure to join the celebration at the album’s release party on Sunday, May 4, 2025, 6 p.m. at the Miami Beach Bandshell during the “Son Del Mundo” concert, featuring Albita, Lazaro Galaraga, DJ Le Spam, and more. Click here for more details.
For more information and links back to the band, please visit linktr.ee/CortaditoSon.
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