Puede Oirlo?

1. Debajo de la Cascada

2. Donde esta el Amor?

3. Corazon Azul

4. Puede Oirlo?

5. Eres Tu

6. Corrine

7. Camina Conmigo

8. Flor de Pasion (Tune in E)

Editorial Reviews

About the Artist
Raf Astor, a superb guitarist; blending the soul and magic of the rumba, mambo, son montuno and guaguanco Afro-Cuban rhythms, with the fire of the Moorish flamenco, creates a fresh sound and groove -- “Afro-Cumenco”™. His music links the journey of African rhythms, igniting the passion of life and celebration with the fire of an Andalusian stallion, raw yet with a cool soulful tease; for a blend of vibrant and sassy music that swings.

Raf plays his nylon-stringed guitar with a zeal that broadens the horizons of music, and is responsible for fathering an angular guitar style that builds on the spirits of the ancient Moors and Gypsies from Spain, and the griots of Africa; delivering saucy Afro-Cuban and flamenco lines, distinctly his own musical signature with an edgy alternative. His music has its own aesthetic; one which values rhythm, improvisation and above all, duende (ineffable soulfulness).

I like my music thick with texture and unusual harmony”, Raf says modestly; “That is why I incorporate Afro-Caribbean percussion that ties my music all together -- call it a world music flavor with a definite tropical swing and vibe!” His guitar phrases have a spring-loaded tension and energy, yet he slides through tricky intervals with the assurance of a wizard.

My music is not fusion, but a union of spiritual musical styles”, Raf Astor is quick to point out. “It embodies deeply emotional expressions”, he continues. My end is to create, not emulate.” From Raf’s live performances with his band, we get a glimpse of his musical canvas and influences, ranging from the African village musicians to the traveling gypsies; and you will encounter his mystical lyricism and molten energy.

Raf has appeared with Eddie Palmieri and other Afro-Cuban musical giants, performed at Disney World’s Premiere of “Pocahontas” and his musical contribution to the soundtrack of the movie, “The Thomas Crown Affair”, made it sizzle. His appeal spans generations and formats; and unites afro-Cuban, flamenco, jazz and salsa dance audiences -- and transcends boundaries at such clubs as S.O.B’s, Zinc Bar, and Nell’s in New York City -- and, amongst his biggest fans, is salsa’s superstar, Ruben Blades. Raf keeps his music strong, fresh and vibrant; yet breaths a new life into music that is luscious and serene -- with an edge.

Get ready for the evolution and excursion into the brilliance of Raf Astor’s “Afro-Cumenco” -- music that displays an enormous range of emotions.

For more information on the magic of Raf Astor, contact Gill R. Pessoa at GP Productions, 362 Third Avenue, Suite 1B, New York, NY 10016-9012; via telephone (212) 686-5267, eFax (208) 439-9064, or e-mail: GillRP@usa.net.

Afro-Cumenco is a trademark of Gill R. Pessoa / GP PRODUCTIONS

Puede Oirlo?,Raf Astor,Invisible II,A great blend; Flamenco, Latin jazz and new age.

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