Miguel De Armas Quartet - An Ottawa Treasure
There is something magical and inspiring about seeing someone do what they were born to do.
This is the third consecutive week I have seen Miguel De Armas play. First, with his quartet and other talented musicians and dancers at Afro-Cuban nights, then as guest performer with Esquina de la Rumba at Petit Chicago last week, and finally on Friday at the Brookstreet hotel, joined by bassist Marc Decho, drummer Michel Medrano and Arien Villegas on Congas.
Born and raised in Havana, Cuba, Miguel co-founded the Cuban band NG La Banda Orchestra and over the decades has worked with many talented musicians worldwide including Chucho Valdes e Irakere, Los Van Van, Pablo Milanés, and Compay Segundo
The music of the Miguel de Armas Quartet is nothing short of brilliant. Miguel has a stage presence and charisma that draws you in. As a spectator, I felt as though I happened upon an impromptu jam session amongst friends, rather than a formal concert. Each musician was fully rocking out, their eyes closed for durations within songs, but at other intense sections, the trio stayed focussed at Miguel for direction or cues. The non-verbal communication amongst the group was so tight, it added another level to the performance.
Without further adieu, here is a short clip of the Miguel De Armas Quartet, but if you can, make sure you see them in person, it's 100 times better. They play regularly at the Brookstreet Hotel in Ottawa, Canada.
My apologies for the less than stellar sound quality (which is the default sound on my camera). Thanks also to Rhiana Chinapen for her great camerawork!
Check Miguel’s website for a full bio, and to see when they play next.
