"Vivencias en Clave Cubana" is the debut solo album of Cuban cuatro master Kiki Valera, a member of the Familia Valera Miranda, a century-old group and one of the most important purveyors of the Son Cubana. While completely dedicated to the performance of traditional Cuban music, Valera was exposed to Pat Metheny, Wes Montgomery and Chick Corea through cassette tapes while in school and those jazz inspirations elevate the quality of his cuatro solos in subtle and beautiful ways. Joined here by childhood friend, reknowned Cuban vocalist Coco Freeman, Valera and his exciting ensemble pair 12 original songs with beautiful instrumental work in ways that will make you dance, laugh, and possibly shed a tear. Cuba's traditional music has a history of constant evolution from its very beginnings. With "Vivencias en Clave Cubana," Kiki Valera continues in that spirit.
MI SON is a tribute to the Son Cubano, crafted as the lyrics proclaim, with grace, poetry, rhythm and love. MI SON es un homenaje al son cubano, elaborado como se expresa en su texto con gracia, poesía, ritmo y amor.
Recorded & mixed at FVM Studio, Seattle WA by Kiki Valera & Michael Lazarus
Mastered by Michael Lazarus - www.LATINMUSICMASTERING.com
Produced by Naomi Bierman
Audiovisual by David Hernández of LCA
Kiki Valera - director y cuatro
Coco Freeman - cantante líder
Alain Garcia Bueno - cantante / claves
Carmen Rosa Alarcón - maracas
Ernesto Valera Alarcón - bongo
Emilio Rodriguez - congas
Jose Luis Losada - guitarra
Angel Caballito Beltran (hijo) - trompeta
Angel Beltran Contreras - trompeta
Adolfo Aguilera- Bajo