Kelvis's Tumbao Shakes the Walls of the Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes

August 6, 2018

Kelvis Ochoa Returns to Make a Big Splash After Concert in the Courtyard of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Cuban Art Building. The event took place last Friday at 8:30 p.m. There, absorbed by the chords of his guitar, came the public that follows him to every venue, and others who, in a wandering manner, did not miss that spectacle lasting an hour and a little more.

The singer-songwriter gave us several songs, among them "Ojos negros", "Marieta", "Siete días" —composed by Descemer Bueno—, "Arenas de soledad" and "La conga se me sube a la cabeza", as well as pieces that belong to the albums Habana Blues (2005), Amor y Música (2008) and Curanderas (2014). During the concert Kelvis displayed the profound lyricism behind the romantic and social themes, and the diversity of genres that characterize his work: timba, son, conga and sounds of pop and funky.

To accompany his notes, trumpeter Julito Rigal appeared as a guest. Rigal not only accompanied the singer masterfully, but stole the show with deep and melodious solos. The bass also played a leading role, where Kelvis gave way to the imposing color of his instrument.

The small number of chairs did not discourage the spectators, who found on the ground and in seats placed around the area an alternative space to settle in. That is, those who could resist dancing to the rhythm of the artist's frenetic tumbao rhythms that seemed to shake the walls and paintings of the Museum. There was even someone who invaded the stage, as a sort of premeditated act.

Perhaps the Achilles heel of the show turned out to be the sound. The reference was not among the best taking into account the height and lack of sound clarity. For the listeners' benefit, these slips had no impact thanks to Ochoa's good musical performance. As usual, the singer-songwriter encouraged spectators to add their voices through choruses. Perhaps the most optimal moments were those in which his musicians gave way to those present so that the dialogue would be more intimate with him.

The also winner of a Goya Award 2006 for best original music, thanked the possibility of giving a concert there, in homage to the 500 years of Havana. Soon, he will release an album with Bis Music titled Calle Amores.

Source: La Jiribilla