GuacaMusic: Gato + Palenke Music Co.

posted in: Features • Latin

Often, some of the most eclectic blends are the ones who taste the greatest. Just think about salsa verde, mole or other eccentric dishes that combine extremely different ingredients like chili and chocolate.

In our opinion, the same thing happens with music. Some of the greatest bands have members from different backgrounds or have very distinct talents. A great example of this is Gato + Palenke Music Co., an awesome OurStage band that combines the talents of  its diverse members who hail from Peru, Colombia, El Salvador and Paraguay.

During the first years together, the band played mostly covers, a formula that worked for a while. Once the band’s distinctive sound was achieved, Jaime Andrés Salazar”Gato”who is the vocalist, composer, guitarist, producer and director of the band, began writing new songs.

This new formula worked wonders. Fans fell in love with the amazing combination of rhythms such as salsa, merengue, festejo, bomba, cumbia, merecumbé, punta and gaita.

Curious? Just play Gato + Palenke Music’s song El Incendio and you’ll know what the entire buzz is about: the rhythm, the lyrics and the blend of instruments. It all comes together perfectly. No wonder this song is among the Top 10 on our Latin Channel.

Beyond their great music, what we love most about this band is the sincerity of their lyrics that relate to the feeling of many emigrants who leave their country in search of new opportunities. As the band puts it they speak of wanting, longing and hope.

A great example of lyrics that speak about the common struggles of immigrants is the band’s song La Olla Rota.  Using playful and danceable melodies, the piece talks about economic struggles and how these can have a real impact on our emotional lives.

So now you know, if you are into eclectic blends, profound lyrics and amazing music, follow Gato + The Palenke Music Co. on OurStage.com. You won’t regret it. ¡Provecho!