I can't think of a better band to book during the Cuban American Festival than Oriente, and that's what the Turtle Kralls did. Oriente is basically a Cuban band, with the exception of drummer Fabio Patino, who comes from Mexico City. Egidio Balzola (Eddie), the lead singer and guitarist is from Guanabacoa. Ignacio Nunez is from Havana, as is bassist Israel Rodriguez. Israel studied with Carlos del Puerso from Irakere, a famous Afro-Cuban Jazz ensemble and Cubanismo. His playing reflects his years of study.
Each member of Oriente is an outstanding artist in his own right. Eddie's voice is strong and expressive, and his lead guitar work is incredible. Fabio and Ignacio have a Latin groove together that is spandex tight, but with each free to express his artistry. Oriente is based in Miami, but plays in Key West on a regular basis. We walked in on a jam. They were playing "Red, Red Wine in a way I guarantee you've never heard it. Drummer Fabio was playing rhythm guitar. Eddie added some new lyrics to the tune, "I roll my splif, I take a whiff", you get the message. It was hilarious.
Tracy Chapman's "Gimme One Reason To Stay Here" was pure energy. I don't think the Stones could play it hotter. Next we had a traditional Cuban country song, written 80 years ago that could have come straight out of Texas today with a moving beat and fantastic vocal harmony. Music like this is why Cuba in the old days attracted everybody who could afford to go. Eddie's lead burned. This band is what Gloria was talking about in "Hot, Hot, Hot". It was impossible not to dance to this one, and everybody did. Punchy drums and smoking congas made sure.
Whether in Spanish or English, Eddie Balzola's vocals are right on the mark. Oriente's originals are marvelous,especially "Amazona". There's an underlying jazz feeling that puts them in the World Music genre. There's a drum and percussion solo that defies description. Bassist Israel is playing a subtle slide effect that is not notes, but tones. This is the sound of Latin Soul with an almost primitive feel, a jungle sound, if you will. The next tune is titled,"Fountain Of Truth", and was written for a departed friend, Florencio Bara, the great Cuban percussionist. It begins with spooky Beatles-ish harmony leading to the power vocals.
Slowing down (but not much), Oriente plays another fine original, "Uptown". Eddie uses a huge low voiced fat tone and plays some unison with the bass. The percussion is exquisite. A request for some Santana brought us "Guajila". Believe me, Carlos would approve, especially when they slid into a minor version of "Hang On Sloopy" at the end. Oriente is thrilling and fun. This is a wonderful blend of Cuban and Mexican musical thought with a definite jazz bent. I can't express strongly enough what a dynamic rhythm section this is. Go see them. They will be back! Stay cool!