Michiko Abe
Tokyo
Afro Urbanity
Electronic afro cuban jazz project
About AU
Among the Cuba music, very specific genres of AfroCubanmusic, such as Rumba and Santeria, are put in the spotlight by being mixed with a variety of styles our artists come accross daily. It is the combination of detailed, experiment-oriented, unique arrangements and individual vocal work.
Our nationaly and internationaly reknown members, animated by the warmth of their music, share with you their colorful rythmes.
In the, unfortunately now closed, hall SARAVAH Tokyo in Shibuya, 360 spectators were freely surrounding our musicians during their live performances. They earned them a good reputation among not only Cuban music fans but also Jazz, Fusion, Afro Music... Lovers.
After an experimental live on September 22, 2019, the group released its 1st Album “Afro Urbanity”.
Michiko Abe (key)
Sound creator involved in various productions, such as TV, CM, stage...
Recently focusing on Afrocuban music, she has been involved in various groups, from big formations to small electro performance, including solo playing.
Nana Cantarina (voice/Vocal)
She is one of the rare Latin-based vocalist and creator who sings afro-cuban music in Japan.
Her talent awarded her to be invited to the Cuban International Music Festival.
At AU, she teamed up with Michiko Abe to add her own colors to her sound.
Hiromichi Tsugaki (key)
Japan's leading keyboard player.
He was a part of the Matsuoka Naoto Group. Since 1993, he has been involved in various jazz festivals, tours, and albums creation.
From the classic school to the avant-garde synth wake, the number and variety of his approaches remain unchallenged.
Tetsuo Koizumi (bass)
As one of the few authentic salsa and cuban music bass player in Japan, he is active in various bands, live performances, sessions and recordings, including Palma Habanera SON Shiro.
Juasa Kanoh (Drums)
After his return from LA, he got involved in various Japanese groups as a live support, as well as recording sessions.
With his mastery of various styles, he is a core member of AU.
Issei Yoshiba (Percussion)
Latin percussionist who, in addition to being an active artist in many different music genres, appears in STUDIO APARTMENTS and BlueManGroup.
If you speak of Cuban Music, you can be sure his name will come out.
Kota Seki (Bata etc...)
An important percussionist who can play Bata, an Afro-Cuban music instrument.
His skills in Bata even awarded him to win a Cuban competition.
AFRO URBANITY’s tracks
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