Who are we?
We are a Havana-based septet founded in 2013, by Yojan David Pérez Curbelo who gathered young musicians in order to revisit traditional Cuban music giving it a contemporary, fresh and genuine sound.
Our aim is to highlight the values of our tradition, combining the son, guaracha, bolero, rumba, as well as traditional foreign rhythms such as Peruvian waltz, flamenco, reggae, etc.
The presence of the cajón is one of the features of the band. Alternating with the bongo and the bells, it offers a sound that is not typical of traditional Cuban music; however it perfectly fits in the musical world of the group. The combination of congas with a set of minor percussions enriches the rhythmical background. Arrangements of Nueva Habana feature four voice parts, combined with the parts arranged for a guitar or tres.
“Nueva Habana is a group of young musicians playing traditional Cuban music in a highly professional manner. Albeit starting from the idea of the Son Cubano, they have their own vision. Their repertoire includes compositions of the greatest composers, requiring a high degree of technical skill and musical interpretation; on the other hand, they play their original compositions with great enthusiasm and dedication. They have created their unique style distinguishing them from other bands of its kind. Considering the work carried out so far, I am sure Nueva Habana will build a bright future in the world of Cuban music.”
Pancho Amat, “Cuba’s Tresero Mayor”, leader of El Cabildo del son
