Genes transmit every part of what makes us who we are. They carry our features and characteristics which, if developed in the right environment, allow us to flourish into the best version of ourselves. Even if the above isn’t true, it’s reassuring to know that the man bringing the Latin flavours of Nueva York to London’s Royal Festival Hall, is the nephew of the legend salsa singer Héctor Lavoe. And so the Southbank vibrated with LIttle Louie Vega’s fantastic Soulfrito, with its Nuyorican-infused funky, jazzy vibe, lifting the crowd, and transforming the normally sedate concert hall into a clubnight for the evening. Not one white arse was left sitting on a seat.
As if energized and possessed by the spirit of Johnny Pacheco (who once directed his uncle), Little Louie Vega directed a talented bunch of musicians including Josh Milan on vocals and keyboards, the amazing Venezuelan percussionist Luisito Quintero, The Cabo Verdean born Anané Vega on vocals, aswell as vocalists Dawn Tallman and Ramona Dunla vocals. Each intro and outro was calculated with clinical precision, every beat of each song with passion.
One of the highlights was his version of Eddi Palmieri’s ‘V.P. Blues’ which was originally recorded with Harlem River Drive in 1972, with dual Hammond solos and heavy percussion, followed by a Ray Barretto salsa tribute. Anané’s cover Cabo Verde diva Cesaria Evora’s ‘Saudade’ was also sublime.
Vega’s vast knowledge of different musics clearly impressed the audience; attendees left their seats and gathered around the stage to immerse themselves in the medley of salsa, disco, soul, jazz, fado and bossanova. The experience of turning a concert hall into a clubnight certainly payed off, this is surely one of many appearances the DJ and Producer is expected to have throughout this year with his many shows and performances across the world and certainly, not his last one in the UK.
Watch our video review below
Louie Vega and The Elements of Life return to the Royal Albert Hall next Thursday. Tickets here
