Arturo “Zambo” Cavero (1940-2009)

One of Peru’s greats, the embodiment of Peruvianism and the creole culture of Peru’s coastal regions, passed away today as a result of poor general health. The loss of this one man that became a symbol of Peruvian identity will be felt deeply across Peru and especially on the coast, but also across Latin American and the world. His inimitable voice captivated his listeners in a way that few other artists have ever been able to do, somehow making every word his sang sound unmistakeably and unequivocally PERUANO.

October 9, 2009 | Modern Peru, News

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A taste of Black Peru with Oscar Villanueva

Take a look at this video of Afro-Peruvian dancing…

April 17, 2009 | Music

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Novalima in London [Featured]

An infectiously danceable mix-up of old slave songs, salsa and dub

IT’S impossible not to dance to Novalima’s music.

Their mesmerising Afro-Peruvian rhythms based on 400-year-old slave songs mixed with Latin salsa and Caribbean dub is perfect music for this city of immigrants.

Cramming into the Cargo club beneath the rail arches where an old east London garment workers’ district meets the glittering steel and glass skyscrapers of the City, the nine musicians who make up Novalima bring the sounds of Peru’s Pacific shore to Britain.

April 9, 2009 | Music

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Cajón, Cajón Peruano, Señores, Soy el Cajón

We’ve return from the Alianza Francesa where we saw the show by Maria del Carmen Dongo and ManoMadera. There is an explanation of the cajón in this previous blog entry, and a video of a previous show below.

July 28, 2006 | Music

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Perú Negra – Black Peru

Afro-Peruvians contribute significantly to the culture of Peru, particularly in music.

Afro-Peruvians make up about 6% of the population and although settled throughout the country along with the spanish conquistadors, can be found mainly along the costal region.

May 19, 2006 | Modern Peru, Music, Traditions

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