Cartel Afinke

Cartel Afinke highlights two emerging genres of Latin music that have originated from the Dominican Republic and the regions of Panama and Puerto Rico.

Bachata

Characterized by its captivating rhythms and poignant melodies, this Dominican genre of music began to gain international acclaim as Urban Latin music took over Latin nightclubs, leaving romantics yearning for more. However, Bachata boasts a rich history that traces back from the rural areas of Santo Domingo to the vibrant streets of Harlem. Initially associated with questionable venues and sex workers, it faced significant disdain from the music industry for many years. Today, it has risen to prominence on global music charts, competing with Salsa for the title of the leading Latin dance music worldwide, and has given rise to numerous sub-genres, including modern, traditional, and urban, all infused with the romantic themes and intricate guitar rhythms characteristic of syncopated Bachata.

Reggaeton

Reggaeton, which originated in Panama and particularly flourished in Puerto Rico's underground music scene during the 1990s. It has since blended with hip hop influences from New York and has gained international acclaim. From the pulse-pounding rhythms of Dembow to the smooth, infectious flow of Reggaeton. Reggaeton is also influenced by Spanish Reggae from Panama, Dancehall from Jamaica, Hip-Hop from New York, Salsa from Cuba, and Bomba also from Puerto Rico.

Cartel Afinke is an 8-piece band that is embracing these genres and has been entertaining the Adelaide music scene for a while now. Belinda M Jae and Mario Vasquez lead the ensemble on vocals and percussion. While ambidextrous Jorge Gualdron and Jose Levya set the pace on bongos and congas, and Anthony Ranieri maintains the interlocking pattern on drums. Aidan McDonough then choruses on the keys, joined by Sam Morris on guitar, shattering chords into a thrumming sequence of sounds. Finally, Chi Thapa brings it all together with rhythmic and harmonic bass lines.

Experience the new Latin genres that are taking the world by storm!