Electric Piquete release second single and video from Azabache titled “Guayabera”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Animated video celebrates the famous Hispanic clothing item with a boy-meets-girl storyline that salutes the local historic landmark Ball & Chain

Miami, FL – March 28, 2025 – The award-winning Latin funk / fusion outfit Electric Piquete has dropped a new video today, Friday, March 28, their second from the recently-released full-length recording Azabache. “Guayabera”, written by guitarist Chris Correoso and trumpet player Rich Dixon, includes a video treatment written by bassist Michael Mut, and animation and editing by Youssef Mostafa. The song is available on all streaming platforms, and the video is running on the band’s YouTube page.

“The basic idea for the song has been around for several years and I am glad that we got a chance to record and release it on our new album,” says Mut. “What started out as a taunt against a certain bandmember who disliked the traditional Cuban garb has turned into one of our finest recordings and musical representations yet. We are grateful to have found Youssef online and were able to work with him on the animation.”

Formed in 2007, Electric Piquete were named “Best Latin Band” by the Miami New Times in 2009 and 2015. They have performed at virtually every major festival and venue in South Florida, as well as at numerous private and corporate events. They have also appeared at several major regional music festival events throughout the years, including the Clearwater Jazz Festival, the Shakori Hills Festival of Music and Dance, and the Orange Blossom Jamboree.  

The video represents the band’s third overall, following the release of “Chunk” in September, and one for “Cut Me Loose” (featuring Maco Monthervil), which was shot in 2016. The latter was filmed in part on the Ball & Chain Pineapple Stage, the giant fruit-shaped raised platform located in the patio of the Little Havana hotspot, and both make an appearance in the new video.

Ball & Chain bar and lounge and the building it occupies offers a history as colorful and as fascinating as any structure on that portion of Calle Ocho, an area increasingly considered to be the center of Little Havana. The band has performed there many times throughout the years, including during the annual Ball & Chain Music Festival during several iterations, and during a 2016 “Piquete Sessions” mini-residency.

The up-tempo Latin groove of “Guayabera” stands out in stark contrast to the other cuts on the album, including the mid-tempo funk of the first single and the opening track “Salvo”, the heavy sonic landscape that is “Paindemic”, and tribal leanings of “S.A.C.A.” The song was recorded and engineered by Ferny Coipel at the Shack North Studios, the guitars by Correoso at Layland Studio.

Mixed by Grammy-winning producer and engineer Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyoncé, Mick Jagger, Enrique Iglesias), the song was mastered by Zach Ziskin. This summer, the band plans a third single and video release for “Muevete Con Ganas” featuring MannySwagg. More details are coming soon.

For more information and additional links to the band, visit linktr.ee/ElectricPiquete.

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

Afro Roots Fest Islamorada Returns to Florida Keys Brewing Company April 4 to 6

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Community Arts and Culture’s 27th annual event to feature acts celebrating the music of the Caribbean islands and the Americas

Miami, FL – March 12, 2025 – One of South Florida’s longest-running music festivals is coming back to Islamorada April 4 through 6, bringing a full weekend’s worth of world music to the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036). The free, all ages concerts will feature Cuban and Colombian folk, Central American and Caribbean reggae, Latin funk, and world music selections. Festival merch items will be on sale, and an optional $10 suggested donation will go to support the organization that produces this free event.   

“I’m grateful to once again be able to bring the Afro Roots Fest to the beautiful Florida Keys ,” says Community Arts and Culture Executive Director Jose Elias. “I invite everyone to come enjoy the ambiance, craft beer, and music from around the globe.” Afro Roots Fest Islamorada is brought to you with the support of The Monroe County Tourist Development Council, Keys ICE, and the Florida Keys Brewing Company. 

Cortadito, Miami’s leading ambassadors of Cuban folk music, has captivated audiences in Islamorada over the past year with their electrifying live shows. They released the first single from their highly anticipated album The Guajiro Triangle on February 7th, and are set to release their second single prior to their upcoming festival performance. Audiences can expect to hear a mix of new material from their album, along with beloved Cuban standards, including iconic songs from the Buena Vista Social Club.

Electric Piquete is an award-winning Latin funk band from Hialeah who put out new music in September of last year, dropping their first full-length recording called Azabache, a collection of new and mostly instrumental music which is now streaming on all platforms and available on CD through Bandcamp. The first single and video is titled “Chunk“, a mid-tempo funk number mixed by Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyonce, Mick Jagger, Enrique Iglesias. The band is getting ready to issue a second single titled “Guayabera”, and accompanying animated lyric video later this month.

Afro-Latino Reggae artist Philip Montalbán blends Mestizo, Afro-Caribbean, and indigenous cultures of Miskito, Rama, and Garifuna influences in his music. Born and raised in the Bluefields region of Managua, Nicaragua, Philip is an international recording and touring artist whose most recent release is the infectious single called “Miami”.

Group Barrio Abajo plays the folkloric music of the Caribbean Colombia by using traditional percussion instruments and flutes, with modern instruments, presenting styles such as bullerengue, porro, chandé, and more than 30 other unparalleled musical rhythms. Globally, their home country is known for cumbia and vallenato, but these are just two parts of their musically diverse heritage.

Jean P. Jam AKA Pokito is a Haitian artist that offers up a special blend of world beat music called “Deep Roots” that combines African, Soca, Caribbean, and reggae influences into one groovy amalgamation. DJ Supa Kundukta (Super Conductor) is the DJ stage name for Elias and he will be spinning a special selection of Afro Beat and world grooves, along with funk, soul, and R&B classics. 

The full schedule is as follows:

Friday, April 4, 6 p.m. | Pokito

Saturday, April 5, 6 p.m. | Cortadito and Grupo Barrio Abajo

Sunday, April 6, 2 p.m. | Electric Piquete, Philip Montalban, DJ Supa Kundukta

For more information, visit AfroRootsFest.com.

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

Cortadito to release second single from upcoming Guajiro Triangle full-length “Aqui Te Traigo Mi Son”

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

New song from award-winning Cuban folk group streams on all platforms March 21, band to celebrate at Hoy Como Ayer same night

Miami, FL – March 5, 2025 – Miami’s leading Cuban folk music ambassadors Cortadito will release “Aqui Te Traigo Mi Son” on March 21st, the second single of their upcoming album The Guajiro Triangle. Written by the late Alberto Pantaleon Hernandez and arranged by Franklin Reytor, the song features Humberto Upierre on lead vocals and Cuban pianist Michelle Fragoso.

The song opens with a memorable hook lead by Roniel Vega’s trumpet, which gives way to the catchy chorus and several sultry traditional sonero verses by Upierre. With a solid Cuban son rhythm provided by bassist Alberto Pantaleon and percussionist Pacha Portundo, the number soars into Vega’s and Fragoso’s masterfully executed solos. “Aqui Te Traigo Mi Son” was recorded by Guillermo Rodriguez Bravo and group founder Jose Elias and mixed by Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyoncé, Enrique Iglesias).

“I’m very happy that the band has chosen to interpret, and record one of my father’s songs,” says Pantaleon. “He wrote more than 200 of them, I personally know 30 to 40, and the rest are available as karaoke tracks internationally through ASCAP.” Born and raised in San Antonio de Río Blanco, Cuba, the bassist studied the instrument under Irakere’s Carlos del Puerto, has performed with Chucho Valdes, Diego Cigala, Armando Manzanero, and Yuri, and toured with Eliades Ochoa and the Afro–Cuban Allstars.

The accompanying video is a performance piece set at Hoy Como Ayer, the legendary Little Havana hotspot, shot by Adrian Gonzalez (Oigovision) and edited by producer Jose Elias. It will be released at 12 p.m. EST on March 21 through the band’s YouTube Channel.

The release comes on the heels of the band’s first single “A Yemayá”, which dropped on February 7 with an accompanying video. That song, a vibrant homage to the Afro-Cuban goddess of the sea, features Latin GRAMMY-winning flautist Nestor Torres and showcases the band’s signature Cuban son sound. 

Additional singles are to be announced; the full-length drops in May and will be available on vinyl and all streaming platforms. The band plans a celebration at Hoy Como Ayer (2212 SW 8th St, Miami, FL 33135) on the night of the release, beginning at 9 p.m. More information and tickets are available online here.

For more information, visit CortaditoMusic.com.

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

Afro Roots Fest returns with the Asere Social Club at the Wolfsonian – FIU February 28

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Multimedia presentation aims to create new music by exploring the fusion of Afro-Cuban song and dance by Irawo Osa with the Cuban folk and country music of Cortadito

Miami Beach, FL – February 11, 2025 – Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerizing synthesis of ancient traditions and modern music on Friday, February 28, 2025, 7 p.m., at the Wolfsonian – FIU (1001 Washington Avenue, Miami Beach, FL 33139). This new work produced by Grammy-nominated artist Jose Elias, features collaborations between Cuban Son band Cortadito, the Cuban rumba group Irawo Osa, poets Román Díaz and Adrian Castro, and Fulbright Scholar Dr. Ivor Miller. The performance delves into the heart of Cuban culture, exploring the African roots and customs that have shaped its vibrant soundscape. 

Attendees will experience the electrifying combination of Afro-Cuban songs and rhythms with Son and Changüí music and dance, and immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of Cuban folklore styles, including the Rumba, Palo, Carabalí-Abakuá, and Lukumí-Yoruba traditions. Listeners will be able to discern their impact on the development of popular Cuban music like Son and Timba.

“My goal with this presentation is to highlight the social club themes of belonging and community by showcasing this unique and genre-bending combination of Cuban music,” says Elias, the show’s producer. “Using a multimedia format will help give audiences a sense of the many facets that make up the tapestry of a social club, and take our program to new heights.”

Performances by Cortadito and Irawo Osa, which is composed of members of the Munequitos de Matanzas, will be melded with the virtual poetry of Díaz and the live poetic presentation of Castro. Dr. Miller will offer insights as he narrates and weaves a storyline that highlights the African roots of Cuban popular music and its global impact.

Dr. Miller is also a Wolfsonian – FIU Fellow in residence for February of 2025, when he will conductresearch on photographs of Cuban musicians gifted to The Wolfsonian’s library by collector Vicki Gold Levi. 

The opportunity to witness the power of Cuban music and its enduring legacy at the Wolfsonian – FIU is free with an RSVP here. Sponsored by the City of Miami Beach, the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, and the Library of America.

This program is presented as part of Latino Poetry: Places We Call Home, a major public humanities initiative taking place across the nation in 2024 and 2025, directed by Library of America and funded with generous support from the National Endowment for the Humanities and Emerson Collective.

For more information, please visit AfroRootsFest.com.  

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

Cortadito Unveils First Single “A Yemayá” from Upcoming Album Release Guajiro Triangle

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami’s award-winning Cuban folk group releases a new song and video featuring Nestor Torres on February 7

Miami, FL – January 15, 2025 – Renowned Cuban folk ensemble Cortadito will release “A Yemayá”, the first single from their upcoming album Guajiro Triangle, on February 7. Written by co-founder Julio Cesar Rodriguez, this vibrant homage to Yemayá – the Afro-Cuban goddess of the sea – features Latin GRAMMY-winning flautist Nestor Torres and showcases the band’s signature Cuban Son sound. 

This irresistibly danceable first single opens with a duet between Tony Perigo‘s trumpet and Torres’ flute before swaying into a rich groove by percussionist Pacha Portundo and Alberto Pantaleon‘s upright bass. Co-founder Jose Elias’ tres and tumbao provide the perfect counterpoint to Rodriguez’s velvety vocals, delivering pure rhythmic magic.

The accompanying video, directed by Adrian Gonzalez (Oigovision) and edited by Elias, brings the song to life in Coconut Grove, featuring dancer Marisol Blanco in traditional Yemayá attire. The song was recorded by Guillermo Rodriguez Bravo and Elias and mixed by Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyoncé, Enrique Iglesias).

“I wrote the song during a moment of reflection by the ocean,” says Rodriguez. “I asked Yemayá for guidance, releasing my doubts and fears to the water. Her protection inspired the message: trust her, and she will provide.” The single is the first from the group’s debut album due to be released in May 2025 on the Afro Roots Recording label. 

For more information, visit CortaditoMusic.com. 

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

Cortadito and Electric Piquete return to Guanabanas December 21 for Noche Latina

MEDIA ALERT

Jupiter, FL – December 6, 2024 – The recurring Noche Latina series at Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar (960 North Highway A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477) is poised for another run on Saturday, December 21, 2024 featuring a pair of Miami-based, award-winning groups in Cortadito (traditional Cuban folk), and Electric Piquete (Latin funk / fusion). The first band (Electric Piquete) will take the stage from 4 to 7 p.m. (all ages welcome), followed by Cortadito from 9 to 11 p.m. (21 and over). The recurring Latin music series was first created by Roots Music, Inc. in 2015 to offer area music fans a little more variety.

Named after your favorite caffeinated pick-me-up and voted “Best Latin Act 2019” by Miami New Times, the evolution of Cortadito has led it to become one of the torchbearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong. A traditional folk and acoustic band that focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music known as Son (pronounced sOwn), their sound can best be described as reminiscent of the famed Buena Vista Social Club. Learn more about the band at CortaditoMusic.com.

A nationally-touring Latin funk band from Miami best known for fiery originals and inventive interpretations of Latin and jazz standards, Electric Piquete was bestowed top honors by the Miami New Times (“Best Latin Band”) in 2009 and 2015. A powerfully tight rhythm section lays the foundation for melodious interplay amongst a fiery horn section and keyboards / synthesizers. The band has been taking listeners on an Afro-Caribbean journey of sound since they began performing in the Greater Miami area in early 2009. They are celebrating the release of a new album called Azabache.

For more information about the show and the venue, to browse the menu and shop the online store, visit Guanabanas.com or call 561.747.8878. 

Who: Cortadito and Electric Piquete

What: Noche Latina music series

When: December 21

Where: Guanabanas Island Restaurant & Bar, 960 North Highway A1A, Jupiter, FL 33477

More: Guanabanas.com

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

Electric Piquete celebrate release of first-ever full-length Azabache at Margaritaville November 21

MEDIA ALERT

Miami, FL – November 12, 2024 – Award-winning Miami-based Latin funk “fusionistas” Electric Piquete have finally delivered on a promise made some time ago. The band’s new recording Azabache, a full-length collection of new and mostly instrumental music, is now streaming on all platforms and available on CD through Bandcamp.

The band will play a makeup release party at the Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort Bandshell on Thursday, November 21, 2024, beginning at 7 p.m. Show is free and open to all ages, comprised of one two-hour set with no breaks. Copies of the CD and new t-shirts will be available for purchase.

Formed in the summer of 2007, Electric Piquete is a two-time Miami New Times “Best Latin Band” award-winning Latin funk outfit. 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.

High-resolution photos of the band and the album cover are available here. Navigate here for the full album press release.

Who: Electric Piquete

What: Azabache album release party

When: Thursday, November 21, 2024, 7 to 9 p.m.

Where: 1111 N Ocean Dr, Hollywood, FL 33019

More: linktr.ee/ElectricPiquete

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

Community Arts and Culture Presents a Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Islamorada 11/3

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Miami nonprofit partners with the Florida Keys Brewing Company for event featuring live music and a sugar skull-making workshop

October 15, 2024 – Miami-based nonprofit Community Arts and Culture (CAC) is once again presenting a Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) celebration at the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Highway Islamorada, FL 33036). The free, family-friendly event will feature live music by Fabi World and Mariachi Veracruz Miami, as well as face painting, and a sugar skull-making workshop. The concert is free and tickets for the face painting and a sugar skull-making workshop are $15 for kids and $25 for adults. 

“We invite everyone to come out and enjoy an afternoon of music, legacy, and love,” says event producer Renee Chavez. 

Mexican musician and composer Fabi Patiño fronts his world beat and rootsy groove trio that also features Nay Roze on violin and vocals, and Gilma Espina on percussion and vocals. Originally from Oaxaca Mexico, Fabi has become an ambassador of the Miami music legacy across the globe.

Mariachis play the traditional music of Mexico, always in full dress and with much gusto. Mariachi Veracruz Miami brings joy and passion to every performance and are highly in demand on the South Florida music circuit.  

FKBC is the Upper Keys’ first microbrewery and is located in the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District. They always have a great selection of their favorite beers, as well as a rotating list of seasonal and barrel aged beers, on draft.

Event support is provided by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, FKBC, and the Morada Way Arts and Culture district. For more information, visit CACMiami.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS AND CULTURE

Community Arts and Culture is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing world music, lectures, and workshops to underserved communities. For decades, CAC has been enriching lives and promoting cultural understanding through its diverse programs and events.

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

Community Arts and Culture Presents a Dia de los Muertos Celebration in Doral 11/2

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Miami nonprofit partners with youth organization at The Doral Yard for event featuring live music and a sugar skull-making workshop


Doral, FL – October 14, 2024 – Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a celebration of life. Community Arts and Culture (CAC) is presenting an evening of live music from Dr. Calavera, Mariachi Veracruz Miami, and the Hialeah Senior Rock Ensemble, dance numbers by Kwa Senbo Danse Vodou, musical selections by DJ Le Spam, face painting, and a sugar skull-making workshop at The Doral Yard (8455 NW 53rd St Suite 106, Doral, FL 33166) on Saturday, November 2, 2024, beginning at 6 p.m.

“We’re pleased to once again be celebrating the Day of the Dead in Downtown Doral along with the CAC,” says event producer Renee Chavez. “I invite everyone to join us in honoring our ancestors with an evening of family-friendly, and culturally enriching fun.”

Dr. Calavera is a group dedicated to preserving the legacy of Los Fabulosos Cadillacs, the beloved Argentine ska / Latin rock legends. Mariachi Veracruz Miami is a traditional Mexican folk band who bring joy and passion to every performance. The Hialeah Senior Rock ensemble is comprised of student musicians who interpret classic tunes from the 60s through the 00s, and are led by Director Gus Mayorga.

Andrew Yeomanson AKA DJ Le Spam is a musicologist, composer, and producer. He’s best known for founding and leading the Latin Grammy-nominated Spam Allstars and for his immense record collection. Kwa Senbo Danse Vodou is a local troupe of Haitian dancers.

The Doral Yard is a community gathering space offering culinary delights, live entertainment, and events in Downtown Doral. The 20,000-square-foot space is divided into two indoor/outdoor zones: The Hub and The Backyard. There are two full liquor bars and several dining and desert options available.

Event support provided by the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, The Children’s Trust, and The Doral Yard. All ages welcome, no cover; a $10 suggested donation is encouraged for the facepainting and workshop.

For more information, visit cacmiami.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS AND CULTURE

Community Arts and Culture is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing world music, lectures, and workshops to underserved communities. For decades, CAC has been enriching lives and promoting cultural understanding through its diverse programs and events.

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

Community Arts and Culture Presents a Tribute to the Buena Vista Social Club

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Award-winning Cuban folk group Cortadito pays homage to the Buena Vista Social Club October 19 at Florida Keys Brewing Co.

Islamorada, FL – October 2, 2024 – Community Arts and Culture (CAC)has for decades brought world music performances, lectures, and workshops to underserved communities. In the spirit of educating the public and celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month, the Miami-based nonprofit will present a free, all-ages event featuring the Cuban folk group Cortadito this month in Islamorada.

The band plays the Florida Keys Brewing Company (81611 Old Hwy, Islamorada, FL 33036) on Saturday, October 19, during a very special tribute to Cuban music icons the Buena Vista Social Club (BVSC) beginning at 6 p.m. Cortadito will perform classics from the Grammy-winning BVSC album, along with original music from their upcoming full-length release Guajiro Triangle.

“We’re excited about celebrating nuestra hispanidad and sharing our music with the people of Islamorada for Hispanic Heritage Month,” says band co-founder and tresero Jose Elias.

Since its origins twelve years ago, Cortadito has evolved into one of the torchbearers of a pop culture phenomenon that is two centuries strong. A traditional folk and acoustic band that focuses on performing one of the earliest styles of Cuban country music known as Son (pronounced sOwn), their sound can best be described as reminiscent of the famed BVSC. 

FKBC is the Upper Keys’ first microbrewery and is located in the Morada Way Arts and Cultural District. They always have a great selection of their favorite beers, as well as a rotating list of seasonal and barrel aged beers, on draft.

Event support is provided by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, FKBC, and the Morada Way Arts and Culture district. For more information, visit CACMiami.org.

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ABOUT COMMUNITY ARTS AND CULTURE

Community Arts and Culture is a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing world music, lectures, and workshops to underserved communities. For decades, CAC has been enriching lives and promoting cultural understanding through its diverse programs and events.

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