Chicha: An Ode to Peruvian Cumbia
SUMMARY: This post is my tribute to Peruvian cumbia, chicha, with some embedded videos and a breakdown of why the music is so cool.
Chicha is Peruvian cumbia, and it’s among the most beautiful music I’ve ever heard. It’s addictive; I can’t stop listening to it. The gringo ear, if not acclimated to Latin music, may not appreciate these songs on the first listen. Unfortunately, many Peruvians don’t like or even hate Peruvian cumbia. It’s seen as a lower-class music, but it’s apparently gaining popularity compared to a generation ago (as it should).
American groups, from rock bands to hip hop acts, typically have four or five people at most. Salsa and cumbia bands bring out the whole neighborhood: trombones, trumpets, guitars, various percussion instruments, leading vocals, backup vocals, etc. The horns are the key that differentiates salsa and different types of cumbia from gringo music. Once you come to love the sound of the horns, you’ll be addicted too. … Read more
Bogota’s Zona Rosa in Pictures
SUMMARY: Bogota’s Zona Rosa is the largest and most crowded party area for people with money. It’s also a major high-end shopping district by day and early evening. It features global brand stores like Puma, Hugo Boss, etc. as well as dozens of independent boutiques for all things fashion and beautiful. The small district’s located roughly between Calles 80 and 85, Carreras 11 & 15. I took pictures while running on an early Friday evening.
Photo Exhibit in Bogota
SUMMARY: Colombia’s National Museum of Photography had an exhibit in Plaza Lourdes last month. The images were compelling enough to devote a blog post. Each picture tells a story uniquely Colombian.
