Tekameli at the Stade

Some much needed Mediterranean warmth was brought to a cool Stade last night by the Catalonian band Tekameli, writes HOT’s Paul Way-Rider.

As part of the ‘Stade Saturdays’ free events, Tekameli’s blend of Latin music and Gypsy flamenco (plus huge amounts of energy) soon had the large crowd clapping, dancing and singing along.

The lead vocals were supplied by Julio,  augmented by voice harmonies from the rest of the band, especially those of the two guitarists Jean and Saloman. Saloman took over lead vocals for some of the songs and it’s hard to convey what both Julio and Saloman did with their voices. It was thrilling.

 

The band’s rhythm section of bass and percussion provided a constant lively pulse frequently punctuated by some breathtaking, rippling runs of notes from the bass. The drummer led the band into such exciting rhythms that we were almost hypnotised.

Sometimes one of the band would speak to the audience and although it was not in English, they conveyed so much warmth and enthusiasm, you felt you understood every word!

During the 90 minute performance we were treated to a great mix of up-tempo rhythmic offerings and some slower, more soulful, ‘cantiques’. Songs included the Gypsy Kings’ standard ‘Bamboleo’, a Catalonian version of ‘My Way’ and a demonstration of flamenco handclapping where the players stood in a small group and clapped out a rhythm with each member of the band clapping on a different beat in the bar. Try doing this with one or two friends, I promise you, it is very difficult, especially at speed.

 

Here are a couple of clips of the band but note that the line-ups are different from the musicians who entertained us so wonderfully tonight.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WthU1IjzZxo&NR=1&feature=endscreen

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9O2Hrt97YeY

and their cd’s can be found here

Unfortunately they could only perform one encore as they informed us, in Catalan of course, that they had to catch a plane back to Barcelona.

I’m not sure how often Tekameli appear in the UK but when they are next here, go and see them, you certainly won’t be disappointed. Incidentally, Tekameli means “I Love You” in Calo (the ancient language of the gypsies of Spain).

Hastings Borough Council should get a mention for providing such an amazing, free show and it’s worth pointing out that the sound system was excellent too!

May 19 2013

Photos by Paul Way-Rider

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