Rumbaristas

Latino plus Balkan equals international rumba. For the Rumbaristas, it also is an invitation to dance and to enjoy! 

Their musical formula, which has been variously dubbed Mestizo new style or Balkanorumba, was spawned when Catalan rumba-player and guitarist Willy Fuego joined forces with French/Sicilian/Polish trumpet/accordionist Thomas Morzewski and two Belgian rhythm kings: Roel Poriau on percussion, and bassist Thomas De Smet.

The band describes their music as “a balanced, lively and colourful mix of Latin-American flavour, with a passion for Balkan melodies” and “a true celebration of cultural diversity, with every note taking the audience on a journey across continents.” Their hashtag is #musicwithoutborders and their spicy mix rages through rumba, tarantella, cumbia, Balkan, son, and ska. There are no borders to this musical mélange which reflects the varied backgrounds of the players: it’s a hybrid European blend stemming from their Catalan, French and Belgian roots. 

This is a band that will take you travelling the world without leaving the beach via music that ranges from delicate to explosive, all executed with top-notch musicianship and a verve for adventure and exploration. Their joy in playing sweeps their audience along for the journey. You will want to be along for this ride.

– EM