Bloko del Valle en Plaza de Europa en Puerto de la Cruz
I had been high above the town, enjoying the tranquillity, the peace and quiet of the gardens at Risco Bello. Descended into the town in time for Mass at the main Catholic Church. Surreal, as drifting in was the sounds of La Carnaval which started in Puerto de la Cruz yesterday. I investigated further and found Bloko del Valle.
Incredible!
A drum ensemble complimented by brass section, guitar and vocals. A fusion of salsa, reggae and big band.
On stage I counted at least 15 drummers!
I am not sure if they did an encore or not, but they could not go beyond their allotted time. So what did they do? They climbed down off stage, were joined by more drummers and formed a circle in the crowd and carried on playing. I counted at least 30 drummers. I was within the circle.
Talking to one of the girls in Bloko del Valle, she said they had been playing since 5pm. They finished a little before 8pm. Almost a three hour session. She said their total number was 50!
Top story in The Drum Daily (Monday 7 March 2011).
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