Electric Piquete to Debut at Casa Tiki in Little Havana September 10

Award-winning Latin funk band to play two sets beginning at 9 p.m., a free show for those 21 and over

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami, FL – August 17, 2021 – When Casa Tiki hosts Miami’s Latin funk / fusionistas Electric Piquete on Friday, September 10, 2021, beginning at 9 p.m., it will mark the first time the Hialeah-based band will play at the relatively new Western Pacific-themed Little Havana hotspot. Located at 1728 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135, Casa Tiki has quickly become a much-needed haven for live music in the area, especially since the stalwarts Ball & Chain remain temporarily closed.

“We are extremely honored to play at this wonderful new venue and look forward to putting on a great show for live music fans,” says band co-founder and drummer / vocalist Ed Rosado. “We always appreciate the opportunity to break into a new venue and thank management for giving us a shot.” Rosado also writes and arranges songs for the band, and also serves as musical director.

Homecookin’ Hospitality Group, the team behind Foxhole, Drunken Dragon, and rácket, brought a trending, yet one-of-a-kind, concept to Little Havana just before the pandemic broke in March of 2020: a Latin-style take on the traditional Polynesian culture, catering to an escapist longing for travel. Located in the heart of Calle Ocho, the hideaway haven allows guests to create their own tropical escape from reality.

Electric Piquete is a two-time Miami New Times Best of Miami “Best Latin Band” award-winning Latin funk outfit. First named so in 2009, they were again crowned as such in 2015. The band has played virtually all major events in South Florida, including the Miami Music Festival, Calle Ocho, Carnaval on the Mile, the Ball & Chain Music Festival, and Arts in the Park. Few major venues have not seen them grace their stage.

In 2016, the band graduated to the major festival circuit, travelling to NC to play the Shakori Hills GrassRoots Festival of Music Arts & Dance, followed by an appearance at the Orange Blossom Festival in 2018, and Afro Roots Fest in 2019 (Key West) and 2021 (Islamorada)..

Their influences are as diverse as the Miami region that birthed them, ranging from rock to jazz spiced with everything in between: funk, Afro-Caribbean, progressive and R&B. Though mostly instrumental, the band does feature vocals and rapping on several numbers; a tight rhythm section and heavy percussion supports melodious horn play.

Their repertoire consists of mostly original compositions, but they are well-versed in Latin and jazz standards, borrowing from a range of artists, from Herbie Hancock to Mongo Santamaria.

For more information about the band, please visit ElectricPiquete.com or call 786.426.2277. For more on the venue, click CasaTiki.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Cortadito Announce New “Son Sabroso Saturdays” Residency at Guanabanas in Jupiter

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-winning Cuban folk band to entertain Palm Beach County fans on a monthly basis through November

Hialeah, FL – June 20, 2021 – Cortadito,winners of the Miami New Times’ “Best Latin Act” for 2019, and a popular act at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar, will now be appearing during Son Sabroso Saturdays at the waterfront venue located at 960 N Hwy A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477, once a month through November. Cortadito have played Guanabanas previously during the Noche Latina series and the Road to Afro Roots Fest, the opener for an eclectic, long running, and award-winning world music festival. This represents the third residency that the band has booked this summer. The shows will be free and open to the public of all ages, and will run 4 to 7 p.m.

“We are excited and happy to have locked in a number of dates at Guanabanas and appreciate the love and support by Matty and Roots Music and Guanabanas,” says band co-founder Jose Elias, who sings harmony and plays the tres in the band. “Our fan base there in the North Palm Beach area is amazing and we always love playing for them there.” The series of appearances is named after one of the band’s popular original compositions. They are scheduled to perform on the following dates:

August 7

September 11

October 16

November 20

Elias founded the traditional Cuban folk band alongside lead singer / songwriter and guitarist Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet in November of 2011. An instant success, the duo soon released their debut CD titled Abriendo Caminos in 2012. They subsequently expanded their roster by adding several notable musicians, and quickly became festival favorites, performing at the Fingerlakes, Shakori Hills, and Miami GrassRoots Festivals, the Florida Folk Fest, the Carnival on the Mile, and others. In 2018, the band released an EP titled Canciones de Julio. Cortadito also appears monthly at Jerry & Joe’s Pizza in Hialeah and at Cerveceria La Tropical in Wynwood.

Opened by Jupiter surfers as a sandwich shop in 2004, Guanabanas has grown to become an institution in Palm Beach County for three reasons: the lush, tropical setting, great cuisine and cocktails, and live music from both national acts and the hottest names in South Florida, which is curated by Matt Cahur from Roots Music, Inc. Guanabanas is a 100 percent open-air restaurant and bar with woven tiki huts and banyan trees towering overhead, and hand-chiseled coquina stone pathways underfoot.

For more information about the venue, visit Guanabanas.com.  More details about the band can be found at CortaditoSon.com.

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ABOUT CORTADITO

Cortadito’s focus is on performing the traditional Cuban music of the early 20th century. From Son Montuno, Guaracha, Boleros, Nengon, and Bolero Son, this dynamic ensemble brings the listener back to a time when Trio Matamoros, or Ignacio Piniero ruled the Cuban music world.  The era when popular music was Cuban Music and Son Montuno was influencing music throughout the globe. From time to time, Cortadito is backed by a variety of guest musicians, which gives the group a sound reminiscent of the Buena Vista Social Club.

Jose Elias founded the band alongside Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet from Santiago de Cuba in November of 2011 after a 12-year stint with Conjunto Progreso that garnered him a Grammy nomination for his participation in the album Masters of Cuban Son. The duo was an instant success and were invited to perform at the Fingerlakes Grassroots festival in Trumansberg, NY. They released their first CD titled Abriendo Caminos in 2012, which featured one original composition by each of the artists “Delicias Caribeña” (Elias) and “Te Lo Perdiste” (Delet).

In 2013, Julio Cesar moved to Houston, Texas and was replaced by Humberto Upierre from Guanabacoa, Cuba. The group then expanded into a trio which included percussionist Andres Polanco Rivas from Holguin, Cuba. In 2014, the group reunited with Julio Cesar to record what would be the songs for their next release, which included the participation of double bass player  Yorgis Goiricelaya from Matanzas, Cuba.  Yorgis is the Musical Director for Albita Rodriguez’s group and also plays bass with Oscar De Leon.

From 2015 to 2017 the group added various musicians to the roster, including percussionist Santiago McCook, and double bass player Alberto Pantaleon, who has toured with the Buena Vista Social Club and Eliades Ochoa.

Cortadito started 2018 the year with a bang thanks to world-renowned percussionist Sammy Figeroa – he hired the group to back up Buena Vista Social Club legend, Eliades Ochoa at the GroundUp Music Festival. That summer the group released their second EP release titled Canciones de Julio which features five original compositions written by lead singer Julio Cesar, including the classic “Casa de la Trova” written by his father Julio Rodriguez. On September 2, the band once more backed Ochoa, this time at the Los Dells Festival in Wisconsin, the first major Latin music festival in the Midwest, and soon to be the largest such festival in North America.

In June of 2019, Cortadito was named “Best Latin Act” by the Miami New Times in their “Best of Miami” issue. Click here to learn more. The group also received an acknowledgement by the City of North Miami during Hispanic Heritage Month for their representation of traditional Cuban culture in our community. 

In August 2020, the group started pre-production on their first full length album which will feature all original compositions by various band members. The album is due out for release in November 2021 to commemorate the band’s ten-year anniversary.

For more information, please visit CortaditoSon.com.  

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Bachaco Presents the Miami Beach Reggae Fest 2021: a “Peace & Love” Concert Saturday, September 11

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Latin reggae group with a 13-year artistic trajectory including more 300 concerts from Argentina to Canada, sharing the stage with the biggest and best talent

Miami Beach, FL – July 20, 2021 – The Miami Beach Reggae Fest 2021, is the latest edition of a Festival created by Eddy Morillo, singer / songwriter and founder of Venezuela’s own Latin Reggae music group Bachaco. It is essentially a vehicle to continue to cultivate the locals’ love for Reggae music with Latin twist, which represent Miami Beach and Greater Miami’s melting pot of cultures and sounds.

“We’re extremely proud to continue the tradition that has become the Miami Beach Reggae Fest, and are proud to welcome fellow Latin Reggae artists Fidel Nadal and Doctor Krapula to Miami,” says Morillo. “We are looking forward to having an amazing, family-friendly day at the beach and thank the Rhythm Foundation and the North Beach Bandshell for hosting us.”

The event is taking place on Saturday, September 11, 2021 at the North Beach Bandshell at 7275 Collins Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33141, and will be an all ages “Peace & Love” concert featuring three headlining performances:

Fidel Nadal, Argentinian Reggae legend and Latin Grammy nominee known for hit singles such as “Gente Que No” with Todos Tus Muertos, as well as his own “International Love”, and “Emocionado” among others;

Bachaco, performing their Reggae best plus the single “La Policia”;

Doctor Krapula, Colombia’s own Reggae/Ska infused Rock Band with 18 years of history, more tha 500 concerts in 15+ countries, seven album studios, a live DVD and five Latin Grammy nominations, as well as collaborations with Manu Chao, Ska-p, SEEED, Juanes, Café Tacvba, among others.

Doors will open at 4:20 p.m. with a special guest DJ performance by Alesouljah and the live music begins at 5 p.m. Attendance is limited to 1,000 guests and ticket purchase prior to the event is highly encouraged to guarantee availability. General admission tickets start at $39.99 and are now on sale at bit.ly/MBRF2021.

For more information, visit www.MiamiBeachReggaeFest.com.

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ABOUT MIAMI BEACH REGGAE FEST

Originally called “5 de Mayo Beach Fest” in its first 2014 Edition, the Miami Beach Reggae Fest has evolved in its 3rd Edition, becoming the only festival in the region to showcase top Latin Reggae talent, steps from the highly sought-after sands and water of Miami Beach. It’s the perfect environment to enjoy a day on the water plus a sunset and live music under the stars on Miami’s “Best Venue for Locals” (Miami New Times).

Past renowned Latin Reggae artists who have graced the stages are Gondwana (Chile), Los Rabanes (Panama) Laguna Pai (Peru), Ojo de Buey (Costa Rica), Alika (Uruguay), Johnny Dread (Cuba), Sudakaya (Ecuador), and Tarmac (Colombia).

The tradition of supporting Latin Reggae artists to highlight the diversity of our community continues in 2021, and the Miami Beach Reggae Fest welcomes the support of all sponsors, vendors, volunteers and artists who wish to help spread the love and awareness of Reggae Music in all its forms.

www.MiamiBeachReggaeFest.com
IG: @MiamiBeachReggaeFest
FB: Facebook.com/MiamiBeachReggaeFest

ABOUT BACHACO

Since 2007 Bachaco has performed more than 300 concerts from Argentina to Canada, sharing the stage and performing at the same events and festivals as other big names in the reggae and world music scenes such as Stephen Marley and the Marley Brothers, Natiruts from Brazil, Israel Vibration, Toots & The Maytals, Tribal Seeds, Ozomatli, Luciano, Easy Star All-Stars, Midnite, Cultura Profetica, Gondwana, Los Cafres, Los Pericos, Bahiano, Alika, Jarabe de Palo, Los Amigos Invisibles, WAR, King Chango and many more.

Bachaco has also showcased during the SXSW and LAMC music conferences thanks to support from BMI. Bachaco was conceived and founded by Venezuelan Singer-Songwriter Edilberto ‘Eddy’ Morillo in Miami, FL where he regularly meets and collaborates with musicians from everywhere.

Bachaco’s musical diversity is what makes it a true multi-cultural experience. The lyrics naturally flow in English and Spanish but the true language Bachaco speaks is the vibe they transmit: High Energy Groove! The band’s hit singles “Good Morning”, “Sunfire Girl” and “Keep Your Head Up” are the group’s best Reggae songs. Their new Reggae songs will make you groove and have you jammin’ every track as each flows with its own influences of Dancehall, Ska, Rock, Hip-Hop, Dub and Latin Reggae.
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​Bachaco has toured multiple times throughout the United States. In 2014, Concert Channel Sessions broadcasted Bachaco Live from Hollywood, CA during prime time to over 20 countries including: Argentina, Aruba, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Mexico, Panama, Peru, Trinidad, Uruguay, and Venezuela. Telemundo’s “Premios Tu Mundo” 2014 awarded the band a Gibson Sponsorship on National TV for winning Budlight’s “Buscando Mi Ritmo” live music reality TV summer series with their Latin Dancehall Single “Tú” featuring international telenovela rockstar Jose Guillermo Cortines from the Dominican Republic.
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Ojo de Buey from Costa Rica featured Bachaco at the Miami Reggae Festival to celebrate the release of their New Single and Video “Una Sola Nación”, a song they wrote together and recorded at Live House Studios in Miami, FL with producer Mariano Aponte (Puerto Rico), which speaks about coming together as humans.

In 2014, Bachaco headlined the Miami Beach Reggae Fest with Gondwana (Chile) where they performed together on stage their Reggae Rock collaboration “Cruzando Fronteras”.
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Bachaco’s best songs, the Latin Roots hit singles “Jamaican Cumbia”, “Cumbia Pa’ La Nena”, and “Ni Una Lagrima” have been featured on MTV Tr3s, MTV Latin America, CNN en Español, Telemundo, iTunes’ “New and Noteworthy”, Sirius XM Radio, About.com, MSN Latinzine, BMI.com, Gibson.com, AOL Radio’s Rock Latino Top 10, Terra.com, ZUMBA, Venevision Internacional, Miami New Times, Miami.com, El Nuevo Herald (Miami), Viernes Magazine (Miami), Batanga.com, Boom Magazine (Miami), LatinRapper.com, VIPLatino.com, Inity Weekly (Colorado), Brightest Young Things (DC), Reven Magazine (South Carolina), Que Pasa Mi Gente (Charlotte), Nativo Rock (Orlando), The Atlantic Current (South Florida), RCKLG (Argentina), Guacamaya FM (Nicaragua), Rio Live Reggae Radio (Ecuador), KeysWeekly.com (Key West), Remezcla, PulsoBeat.com, ItsInMiami.com, YardHype.com, PuertoRicoUnder.com,and many other media outlets throughout the U.S. and abroad.

www.bachacomusic.com
IG: @bachacomusic
FB: Facebook.com/BachacoMusic
YT: YouTube.com/BachacoMusic

MEDIA CONTACT
MutCommunications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277

Miami’s RumSanders releases debut single “Revolutionary”

Independent hip-hop artist puts drops new track from his EternalFellas imprint ahead of 1983 full-length

Miami, FL – June 29, 2021 – RumSanders is 2021’s breakthrough hip hop artist coming straight out of Richmond Heights, Florida. The rapper’s inaugural single is a dynamic lyrical commentary driven by a bass and piano groove influenced by R&B, soul, reggae and dancehall. It comes in advance of his full-length debut called 1983, which are both being carried by his label called EternalFellas. Click here to preview, stream and download it now.

About “Revolutionary”, the artist offers: “I feel awesome – it’s a beautiful thing, a message that I feel like needs to get across with so much going on. It is the right time to really relate.” He lists Tupac Shakur as his biggest influence (“He’s the head of it all.”) and ran the point for the Southridge High basketball team as an outlet to express his emotions. So, Sanders is no stranger to bright lights and crowds, but his talent for writing lyrics led to a more supreme calling.

Sanders came of age musically in the 90s, starting to write and perform at the age of 10.  Inspired by his mother, a singer named Juliette Middleton who introduced Sanders to the sounds of Prince, Muddy Waters, The Beatles and Bob Marley, and his father Andre Sanders, who turned his life around from the streets to the church and community, Sanders understood the healing power of words.

“Revolutionary” is a high energy, political and passionate expression of society’s problems. Razor sharp lyrics are unapologetic, combined with a beat and optimism rooted in island culture – Sanders’ paternal grandparents were Bahamian – creating a sound that is authentic and addictive. For Sanders, every track tells a story, and he has plenty more to write. 

The track was produced Cei (Clientele), recorded at Cei Studios in Miami, and the lyrics were penned by Sanders. The voice heard at the end is legendary Black Panthers leader Fred Hampton.

For more information, visit facebook.com/RumSanders.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Mayor Manny Cid unveils original Grisell Gajano mural for 305 Vox Populi podcast

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Town of Miami Lakes Town Hall graced with artwork by local artist for collaborative webcast that helps train area students

Miami Lakes, FL, June 22, 2021 – The phrase “Vox Populi – the Voice of the People” has been with Town of Miami Lakes Mayor Manny Cid since his days as a legislative aid in Tallahassee in the 2000s. A refrain often used by a roommate when referring to the public comments section of a bill, it is now the name of his weekly podcast, which is produced with the help of a class of media production students from nearby Mater Lakes Academy. The mayor recently unveiled a stunningly beautiful original piece of mural art by local artist Grisell Gajano that now serves as the backdrop for the video cameras used to produce it.

“I’m a big believer that you constantly have to reinvent yourself, to keep moving forward,” says Mayor Cid. “If not, one becomes stagnant. Last year, I thought ‘What is a good way to share great stories from people in our community, the stories that don’t get shared enough?’” Cid next enlisted the help of Mater’s Digital Marketing Coordinator Luis Perez, and a staff of 10 students got to work producing the show, which streams from Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube. Amazingly, demand for the class has skyrocketed to 100 students for the 2021-22 school year.

“I tried to make it a symbol of our community with all of its colors and flavors, combining them with our ever-present palm trees,” says Gajano. “It’s called Love to reflect the feeling, inclusivity, and the American Sign Language word embedded in the piece.” Gajano has collaborated with the Town of Miami Lakes before, creating an original work that still graces a wall at Royal Oaks Park, a piece called Que Siga la Tradición (Let the Tradition Continue). Says the artist: “Mayor Cid must’ve remembered my work from before because he called and asked if I’d be interested in creating one for the podcast.”

Notable Vox Populi guests include Miami-Dade County Mayor Alex Penelas, Harry Wayne Casey from KC and the Sunshine Band, North Miami Beach Mayor Anthony DeFillipo, Power 96’s Lucy Lopez, and boxer Ulysses Diaz.Mayor Cid hopes to gain wider distribution on Amazon and Spotify soon, and someday get the show on a local cable channel.

He credits his assistant Joseph Sosa for being the glue guy. “We’re blessed to have this all come together.”  A public school educator and guidance counselor, Gajano has also painted murals in Wynwood and the Leah Arts District. See more of her art here.

For more information, visit www.miamilakes-fl.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Cortadito Announce Residency at Jerry & Joes Pizza in Hialeah

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Hialeah, FL – June 16, 2021 – Having grown up nearby in Hialeah, Cortadito founder Jose Elias frequented the Jerry & Joes Pizza location on West 68th Street and 17th Avenue. This has created a full-circle moment for the musician, composer, and co-founder of the Miami New Times’ “Best Latin Act” for 2019, as the band will now be appearing at the restaurant located at 1772 W 68th St, in the El Paraiso Shopping Plaza, once a month through September. The shows are free and open to the public, run 12 noon to 2 p.m., and attendees can enjoy free pizza during the event.

“It’s always great to get a chance to play in my hometown of Hialeah, and now thanks to the good people at Jerry & Joes, even better that it is at one of the places I used to frequent as a kid,” says Elias, who sings and plays the tres in Cortadito. “We look forward to entertaining guests and highly encourage people to support this wonderful local business that has been part of the community for more than 60 years.” The band will be playing just outside the restaurant on the following dates:

June 19
July 17
August 21
September 18

Elias founded the traditional Cuban folk band alongside Julio Cesar Rodriguez Delet in November of 2011. An instant success, the duo soon released their debut CD titled Abriendo Caminos in 2012. They subsequently expanded their roster by adding several notable musicians, and quickly became festival favorites, performing at the Fingerlakes, Shakori Hills, and Miami GrassRoots Festivals, the Florida Folk Fest, the Carnival on the Mile, and others. In 2018, the band released an EP titled Canciones de Julio.

Since 1957 Jerry and Joes has been delivering generations of homemade recipes to the homes of your neighbors. Born in Selerano, Italy (1904), ltalo (Jerry) Barone moved to the United States at the young age of 16. In 1957, Miami residents came to know “The Reef”, located on Biscayne Blvd. Jerry and his lovely wife, Mary found a partner and a friend, Joe. In 1978 Jerry & Joe’s Pizza was purchased by the Cruz family, who still own and operate the restaurants in the same traditional way that Jerry did.

For more information about the restaurant chain, visit JerryandJoes.com. More details about the band can be found at CortaditoSon.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Photo by Luis Olazabal

Jose Elias’ Everglades Songbook Suite to Premiere on Crowdcast for Make Music Miami Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community Arts & Culture and Live Arts Miami to facilitate HD webcast on June 21, 2021, 7:30 p.m. ET

Miami, FL – June 9, 2021 – Grammy-nominated musician and composer Jose Elias, co-founder and tres player for Cuban folk band Cortadito, and long-time guitarist of the Spam Allstars and the Nag Champayons, is also a 2016 Artist in Residence in Everglades (AIRIE) fellow. The creative and artistic fruit of his time in the River of Grass is called the Everglades Songbook Suite (ESS), and an audio / visual production of the project will be webcast for free during Make Music Miami Day – June 21, 2021 – beginning at 7:30 p.m. ET. The free screening will originate from www.crowdcast.io.

“This video presentation focuses on the spirit of collaboration,” says Elias. “I invited fellow musicians to join me at the park to perform songs that resonate with the true essence of what the Everglades represents. Thanks to Live Arts Miami and AIRIE we were able to complete the first multimedia phase of the project. It’s only fitting that we chose World Music Day June 21st to present this film, which was brilliant captured by Randy Valdez and Guillermo Rodriguez.”

The ESS is a collection of compositions and soundscapes that celebrates the sights and sounds of the Florida Everglades by juxtaposing a stunning variety of acoustic instruments with field recordings. They were captured by the artist while in residency at Everglades National Park.  A magical and unique portal into our native habitat, the piece focuses on our connection to nature, the flora and fauna of our increasingly threatened, precious ecosystems, and explores the concept of interspecies communication through music and sound art. 

An illuminating project from one of the leading Miami-based voices in contemporary music. ESS is and immersive audiovisual celebration that captures the sights and sounds of this one-of-a-kind jewel in North America, and the world.

ABOUT JOSE ELIAS AND COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE
A professional musician for more than 30 years, Elias earned his Grammy nomination with 2005’s Masters of Cuban Son which he performed on as part of Conjunto Progreso. He is also the executive and artistic director for the non-profit organization Community Arts & Culture, which just completed a 23rd season of curating the award-winning and multi-county Afro Roots Fest. He also heads and produces artists for the label Afro Roots Recordings. Learn more at JoseEliasMusic.com.

ABOUT LIVE ARTS MIAMI

Live Arts Miami is one of the city’s oldest and boldest performing arts series: an action-driven, people-centered platform for powerful performances, impactful community programs, and learning experiences that spark dialogue, raise awareness around pressing issues, and open minds and hearts in all who take part. For more information, please visit liveartsmiami.org and follow @liveartsmiami on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for the latest updates.

Those interested in catch the webcast are encouraged to register on the Crowdcast site by clicking bit.ly/ESSMDC. For more information, visit liveartsmiami.org.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Browner Sound Unveils the Zurich 69 Swiss Equalizer

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Small business now manufacturing and selling classic EQ modeled after a legendary console, in addition to specializing in professional recording equipment repair and restoration

Hialeah, FL – June 8, 2021 – Omar Garcia is a singer-songwriter / multi-instrumentalist who is probably best known for fronting a power-pop outfit called The Brand in the 2000s and 2010s, which drew major label interest and toured the United States and the UK extensively. In 2017, he founded Browner Sound, a Hialeah-based boutique repair shop dedicated to repairing and restoring pro-audio electronics and is now branching out into manufacturing studio preamps, EQ’s, compressors and effects. 

Browner Sound has just started fulfilling orders for the all-new Browner Zurich 69, a classic EQ design based on Swiss consoles of the 70’s and 80’s reimagined for the API 500-series format.  

“As a gear head, I decided to build modern versions of classic equipment so engineers, myself included, can own coveted units that are either unavailable or unaffordable. Over the next year we expect to offer new versions of classic pieces including units inspired by vintage TASCAM, MCI and Studer reel-to-reels, preamps influenced by Quad–Eight, Opamp Labs and Auditronics as well as original designs,” says Garcia. “What usually costs over $900 for a single second-hand preamp to be purchased, restored and adapted for modern use by a technician is now available for $650 from Browner.”

With three versions of the Browner Zurich 69 EQ available, engineers and producers have their choice:

• The “Modern” features a focus on clarity and transparency. This version leverages the same world-class op-amps found in the most famous British consoles. It is an excellent choice for ultra-accurate tracking, mixing and mastering.

• The “Classic” is fitted with the same op-amps found in the original 1970’s Swiss consoles, delivering smooth and warm tones, softening high-end brashness from drum cymbals, electric guitars and digital audio. It is ideal for mix-bus and individual tracking when a vintage vibe is preferred.

• The “Discrete” adds dimensionality and depth, bringing energy to mixes. Loaded with custom 2520-style discrete op-amps, it brings mixes forward with punchy lows, rich mids and silky air.  It is designed for high-impact tracking, mixing and mastering.

All three include a selectable high shelf (8kHz, 10kHz and 12kHz settings), a selectable low shelf (20Hz, 60Hz and 120Hz), and a sweepable mid-range swinging from 150 Hz to 7kHz. Each band offers +/- 15 dB gain and all versions include a 45Hz lowcut filter.

Garcia is a single father of a little boy, and is raising two others with his partner Naomi Lopez, who is also part of the Browner crew. The Brand enjoyed a stint on the popular Vans Warped Tour and released several popular self-made videos, including one for their single “Christmas Day”.

Buyers can save $100 when purchasing any matched pair. For more information, visit www.BrownerSound.com.

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Afro Roots Fest Returns to Islamorada Memorial Day Weekend

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Florida Keys Brewing Company and the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District to once again host the award-winning world music concert series

Islamorada, FL, May 11, 2021 — The 23rd season of the award-winning Afro Roots Fest makes a second run to the Florida Keys on Saturday, May 29, and Sunday, May 30, 2021 to the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Highway, Islamorada, FL 33036). The event will feature live music on both days by JUke and Electric Piquete  (Saturday), and Electric Kif and the Nag Champayons (Sunday), beginning at 6 p.m. both days. All ages are welcome and a donation of $10 will earn attendees an official festival swag item.  

“It feels good to finally bring the festival back to Islamorada after a year where much of the musical programming in the Florida Keys was cancelled,” says festival founder and musical curator Jose Elias, who also serves as the executive director for the presenting non-profit organization Community Arts and Culture (CAC). 

“Our thanks go to the Florida Keys Brewing Co., Keys ICE, the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District, and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council.” Elias is also the co-founder and guitar player in the Nag Champayons, one of the festival’s featured performers. 

Here is the complete Islamorada schedule / lineup:

JUke and Electric Piquete (May 29)

Electric Kif and Nag Champayons (May 30)

JUke is a four-piece “post-blues” hybrid with a high motor and bottomless soul. Spearheaded by frontman / harmonica player / singer Eric Garcia, the band’s content touches on non-traditional subject matter while simultaneously keeping the crowd moving with a smile on their faces. They are jam festival favorites, appearing at events such as Wanee, Hulaween, AURA, Magnolia Fest, and the Orange Blossom Jamboree. Learn more at jukepostblues.com.

Electric Piquete is a two-time Miami New TimesBest of Miami “Best Latin Band” award-winning Latin funk outfit. The band has played virtually all major events in South Florida, and their influences are as diverse as the Miami region that birthed them: from rock to jazz, funk, Afro-Caribbean, progressive and R&B. Though mostly instrumental, the band does feature vocals and rapping on several numbers; a tight rhythm section and heavy percussion supports melodious horn play. More details available at ElectricPiquete.com.

Electric Kif are a Miami-based power quartet that explore the boundaries between rock, jazz fusion and electronic drum & bass. Made up of bassist Rodrigo Zambrano, keyboardist Jason Matthews, drummer Armando Lopez and guitarist Eric Escanes, the “Kif” describe their music as “post-nuclear,” a dynamic mash of hard hitting groove, high octane riffs and cosmic melody. Their powerful live show brings an unparalleled energy and sound to the stage and displays a new experience every night. More: electrickif.com.

Miami’s Afro Galactic / Tropidelic funksters the Nag Champayons blend African, Caribbean and North American influences into a unique and extremely danceable sound. Their most recent release is the single and video for “Brazilian LSD”, which served as a follow up to 2015’s masterful Rising Sounds of a Sinking City, a darkly serious and ominous 21-minute environmentally-conscious theme. Visit NagChampayons.com for more information.

For more information, visit floridakeysbrewingco.com or call 305-664-9722. Check www.AfroRootsFest.com for updates; more information about CAC is available at www.CommunityArtsandCulture.org. 

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS & CULTURE

Incorporated in September 2002, Community Arts and Culture, Inc. (CAC) is a Miami-based non-profit organization that fosters an appreciation and understanding of a vast assortment of arts and cultures through workshops, lectures and artistic performances in local communities for individuals of all ages and social backgrounds.

CAC has a track record of community collaborations which have earned the support of many other organizations and sponsors, such as the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar, the Florida Department of State’s Division of Cultural Affairs, the City of Miami Beach, the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, the Moksha Arts Collective, Miami-Dade College, the MonroeCounty Tourist Development Council, and the Rhythm Foundation. These harmonious relations help CAC fulfill their co-presenting mission to the community.

In 2018, Executive and Artistic Director Jose Elias was recognized by the Knight Foundation as a Knights Art Champion, which allowed him to donate $10,000 to CAC for the production of the 2019 season of events. In 2019, Afro Roots Fest was named “Best Music Festival” by the Miami New Times in weekly’s “Best of Miami” edition. Organizers produced a “Virtual Fest” successfully live streamed from the North Beach Bandshell  for the first time ever in September of 2020. An all-new membership program launched in March of 2021.

For more information, please visit www.CommunityArtsandCulture.org.

MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com

Afro Roots Fest ft. Venezonix, Vanya Allen and DJ Le Spam at Doral Yard Saturday, 5/15, 5:30 p.m.

MEDIA ALERT

Award-winning world music festival in its 23rd year to feature Venezonix, Vanya Allen and DJ Le Spam

Doral, FL – May 5, 2021 – There will be something for all types of music lovers come Saturday, May 15, 2021 as the Afro Roots Fest makes a stop at the Doral Yard and showcases Afro-Venezuelan electronica by Venezonix, soul and R&B from Vanya Allen and the DJ Le Spam Bus Experience All ages are welcome to this free event coming May 15 to Downtown Doral, and attendees are encouraged to wear a mask and keep socially distanced.

Founded by Elastic Bond’s keyboardist / producer Andres Ponce, Venezonix combines traditional Afro-Venezuelan rhythms with futuristic beats; new EP La Que Es is out now. Allen is a performance artist, educator, and linguist from West Palm Beach known known for performing original music and covers in a wide range of genres as a solo artist and with her group, The Bandoh. Andrew Yeomanson, AKA DJ Le Spam spins all manner of genres, from Miami funk to soul, salsa to world music, and everything in between. 

The Doral Yard is a community gathering space designed to foster local entrepreneurship and culture, created by the Yard Hospitality and Place Projects teams. Expanding on The Wynwood Yard concept, the venue brings culinary delights, live entertainment, and round-the-clock events to Downtown Doral. 

This event is made possible with the support of the Miami-Dade Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Doral Yard.

For more information and for the full festival lineup, visit AfroRootsFest.com. 

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MEDIA CONTACT
Mut Communications
Michael Mut
786.426.2277
info@mutcomm.com