Son al Son
WHO KNEW that Tarland's MacRobert Hall could be turned into a Caribbean paradise for the night? The Cuban melodies which filled the hall contrast immensely from the cold, frosty Scottish winter night. Eleven tables filled the edges of the hall, leaving a space one could only assume was for dancing. The atmosphere was immediately mood lifting and welcoming. Candles on every table gave a warming feel from the freezing winter temperatures. Everyone sitting at the tables were relaxed, talking with their party and having drinks from the bar, clearly excited for what the evening will bring.
Son al Son are a salsa band which mix Son (a style of music made popular in 1920’s Havana) and Salsa in their songs. The salsa six-piece is made up of Cuban, Venezuelan and Scottish musicians all embracing the Cuban style.
However, in order to get a real feel for the music, first up was a salsa dance taster led by Eliecer Reyes, a Venezuelan dance teacher based in the midlands. His energetic personality immediately got everyone on their feet, starting with a follow-the-leader warm up. The teaching of the specific steps came next, including the sol, salsa, mambo, cha cha. The class wasn’t serious, and every group had a giggle or two amongst themselves when they did the step incorrectly. The partners exercise gave everyone a chance to dance with the others and try out the steps just learnt. What the dancing really made you realise was the importance of rhythm in Latin music. The Cuban culture clearly came across as being very social, fun and active, making sure everyone has a great time. And it certainly was active – a couple of glasses of ice cold water were much appreciated afterwards.
The stage was already set up for the musicians who introduced themselves to the now warmed up audience. Ricardo Fernandes Pompa (congas) and Lino Rocha (hand percussion) provided the main vocals, with added harmonies from pianist Simon Gall. Breaks in vocals were decorated with superb melodies from trumpet player Lorne Cowieson, with the constant feel of bassist Bob Thomson. The clear percussive instruments forced you to feel the rhythm making it almost impossible to not at least tap your foot, if not get up and dance. What added immensely to the entertainment of the band, were the couples dancing throughout their performance. Who knew Deeside had so many talented salsa dancers? The rhythmic patterns were highlighted further due to the vibrating floor from the dancer’s steps. There was not one face in the room without a smile and, if you closed your eyes, you were transported to Cuba in the heat with cocktails and good times. All in all, it was a night to remember and I would love to do it again.
Written by Josephine Christie