A new nine-piece ensemble, Cumbiamba, has burst onto the Miami music scene, captivating audiences with its unique blend of Cumbia infused with the psychedelic fervor of Chicha music. The band’s explosive debut performance, featuring a sound characterized by driving electric guitars and subtle yet compelling rhythms, marks a significant new development in the local music landscape.
The Genesis of a Sound
Cumbiamba’s formation is rooted in inspiration and a desire to fill a perceived void in Miami’s live music offerings. Alexandre Merbouti, the band’s singer and guitarist, conceived the idea after attending a performance by the legendary Peruvian Cumbia group Los Mirlos at the Miami Beach Bandshell earlier this year. “It was one of those shows where you couldn’t stop dancing; it had an infectious effect on the audience,” Merbouti recalled. “I thought that Miami could use more of this type of energy.” This experience sparked the ambition to assemble a band that could deliver that same vibrant, danceable, and musically rich atmosphere. The band coalesced and began practicing in earnest during the summer, culminating in their highly anticipated debut.
Embracing the Chicha Spirit
At the heart of Cumbiamba’s distinctive sound is Chicha, a subgenre of Peruvian Cumbia that emerged in the 1970s. Chicha is renowned for its fusion of traditional Andean melodies and Amazonian beats with the raw energy of psychedelic rock and surf rock. This blend often features prominent electric guitars, sometimes with a distinctive surf-rock twang, layered over Cumbia rhythms and accompanied by effects like wah-wah pedals. Merbouti noted a current trend in music leaning away from guitar-centric sounds, stating, “Lately, guitar hasn’t been at the forefront of music. It’s been more electronic. And we are coming in with three guitars and full harmonies.” This approach allows Cumbiamba to channel the hypnotic, kaleidoscopic qualities of Chicha, offering a sound that is both deeply rooted and refreshingly modern.
A Powerful Debut Performance
Cumbiamba made their official debut on July 28 at the Four’s Fiestas Patrias event, a celebration of Peru’s Independence Day held in North Miami. The nine-piece band delivered an unforgettable performance, primarily featuring their take on Chicha music, alongside covers and original compositions. Among the highlights were their original track, “Spooky Cumbia,” and a Spanish rendition of The Turtles’ “Happy Together.” Notably, the band injects social commentary into their lyrics, with “Spooky Cumbia” and their “Happy Together” cover addressing the realities and struggles faced by immigrant communities, including lyrics that speak to ICE raids. This lyrical depth adds another layer to their already compelling musical offering.
The Collective Force: A Nine-Piece Powerhouse
The “gigantic sound” of Cumbiamba is a direct result of its impressive nine-piece lineup, which sometimes expands to ten. The ensemble is comprised of Alexandre Merbouti on vocals and guitar, supported by fellow guitarists Luis Garcia and Julian Gheiler. The rhythm section features Caro Gutiérrez on bass and Cody Mentelos on drums, complemented by Jorge Guerra on percussion. Adding vocal texture and harmonic richness are Vane “Quita Almas” Tavera-Cambana and Sarah Penello, who also plays the flute. Rounding out the dynamic ensemble is Kevin Zapata on keyboards. This collective of seasoned musicians allows Cumbiamba to create a full, dynamic sound that lives up to its ambitious name and the “gigantic” sound Merbouti described hearing during practices.
Resonating with Miami Audiences
The initial reception to Cumbiamba in Miami has been overwhelmingly positive. The band’s ability to blend energetic Cumbia rhythms with psychedelic guitar work seems to have struck a chord with local audiences who are described as “hungry for something live and less aggressively clubby,” seeking “more warm and groovy energy.” Caro Gutiérrez, the bassist, views Cumbia as a reflection of “diasporic synthesis” and appreciates how the genre evolves within Miami’s diverse community. Cumbiamba’s sound taps into something that feels both ancestral and contemporary, a timely resonance that contributes to its immediate appeal.
Looking Ahead
Following their successful debut, Cumbiamba is actively working on new material and preparing for future performances. The band is slated to play with Mala Onda on Saturday, September 25, at Las Rosas in Miami. This upcoming gig is another opportunity for the band to showcase their potent sound and further solidify their presence in the vibrant Miami music scene. As Cumbiamba continues to write songs and hone their performance, their momentum suggests a promising future for this ambitious Cumbia collective.
Cumbiamba’s arrival is more than just the emergence of a new band; it’s a testament to the enduring power of Cumbia and its ability to adapt and thrive. With their unique Chicha-infused sound, socially conscious lyrics, and a powerful live presence, Cumbiamba is poised to become a significant voice and a must-see act in Miami’s ever-evolving music tapestry. This news is a welcome addition to the diverse and dynamic music scene in Miami, highlighting the city’s ongoing role as a hub for innovative Latin sounds.
