Jane Bunnett & MAQUEQUE

‘Jane Bunnett and Maqueque … utterly shatters the glass ceiling of Afro–Cuban Jazz’, The Boston Globe writes about this extraordinary band with five young women who are regarded as the future of Cuban music. Their songs are danceable and contemporary, with both feet in the Cuban tradition. Group vocals are closely integrated into their performances and add depth to the rich ensemble sound.

Since 1982 band leader Jane Bunnett has been traveling between Cuba and her homeland Canada and set up many projects with Afro-Cuban musicians, mostly male. Maqueque is a welcome change, with strong personalities such as Yissy Garcia, who has already made name among drummers. This concert with songs by and about strong women, is organized by the Amsterdam Roots festival to celebrate International Women’s Day.

‘Bunnett’s group was clearly capable of projecting tremendous personality and infectious good feeling. Vocal soloists and surging voices in harmony were uplifting, while the barrage of rhythms from drums and hand drums was earthy and entertaining’ (Ottawa Citizen on Maqueque).

‘Hooray for Jane Bunnett’s gorgeous soprano tone and big, buoyant flute sound’ (Downbeat).