|
Tolu
The history of Tolú, Los Angeles' most powerful Latin band, began in the early 1980s, when reedman Justo Almario congregated some of the best local musicians among them Alex Acuña, Luis Conte, Arturo Velasco, etc. The history of Tolú, Los Angeles' most powerful Latin band, began in the early 1980s, when reedman Justo Almario congregated some of the best local musicians among them Alex Acuña, Luis Conte, Arturo Velasco, etc. The name of the band made reference to the Caribbean coastal town next to Sincelejo, Colombia, birthplace of Almario, who recalls that "Tolú was formed because those musicians wanted a space to improvise within the realm of Latin music, and were not allowed to do so in the Latin dance clubs."
With this objective in mind, Almario assumed the position of musical director and wrote Tolú's creative arrangements. Due to the conflicting commitments of the participants, Acuña points out that "Tolú was never officially structured as an active band." Contrary to the prevailing expectations, Tolú became an influential institution when the all-star band's live performances led to critical acclaim and the Public Broadcasting System (PBS) filmed a concert of its music, which was aired throughout the country.
Available Tracks by Tolu
LEGAL NOTICE - By clicking on any of the "sample" links
below, you are agreeing to the
Terms of Service.
| 
