Album Notes

Our debut CD was produced by NY salsa institution Andy Gonzalez (Libre, Fort Apache, Tito Puente, etc...) and features Cuban vocalist David Oquendo (director of grammy nominated group Raices Habaneras, worked w/Compay Segundo, etc.).

Quimbombó is dedicated to creatively interpreting the Cuban són (the contagious dance music championed by Buena Vista Social Club that is the main ingredient in salsa) by maintaining strong elements of improvisation and spontaneity in its sound. Quimbombó (pronounced keem-bohm-BO) is the title of a classic Cuban són popularized by Conjunto Chappotín in the 1950's; a word of Congolese origin, it means "okra" in Spanish.


October 2004 Review in Hispanic Magazine:

Renowned bassist Andy González is a special guest on this celebration of elemental Cuban forms featuring leader and percussionist Nick Herman and ace sonero and guitarist David Oquendo. Spare arrangements, roots-respecting rhythms, and prominent roles for tres and trumpet create a relaxed mood of heartfelt sabor tropical on tracks like “Hijo del Siboney” and the inquisitive “Sluggo.

April 2004 Review on Descarga.com:

Editor's Pick:
The Cuban son spirit is alive and well and nourished by Quimbombó, the band founded in 1995 by bongocero Nick Herman.
With interpretations of Cuban classics ("Hijo Del Siboney," "Quimbombó") plus a few original tracks including the montuno-blues "Sluggo," Quimbombó is a testament to the timeless beauty, drive and sheer pleasure of the son.
Produced by bassist Andy Gonzalez (Conjunto Libre, Fort Apache Band etc.), who also contributes to several of the tracks here. Excellent vocals by David Oquendo.
Highly recommended.