Cartel Afinke

Cartel Afinke highlights two emerging genres of Latin music that have originated from the Dominican Republic and the regions of Panama and Puerto Rico.

Bachata

Characterized by its captivating rhythms and poignant melodies, this Dominican genre of music began to gain international acclaim as Urban Latin music took over Latin nightclubs, leaving romantics yearning for more. However, Bachata boasts a rich history that traces back from the rural areas of Santo Domingo to the vibrant streets of Harlem. Initially associated with questionable venues and sex workers, it faced significant disdain from the music industry for many years. Today, it has risen to prominence on global music charts, competing with Salsa for the title of the leading Latin dance music worldwide, and has given rise to numerous sub-genres, including modern, traditional, and urban, all infused with the romantic themes and intricate guitar rhythms characteristic of syncopated Bachata.

Reggaeton

Reggaeton embodies a profound cultural narrative, characterized by themes of migration, resilience, and festivity. Its musical origins can be traced back to Panama, where Black communities in the 1980s and 1990s were instrumental in creating reggae en español tracks that resonated globally and captivated audiences. These distinctive sounds flourished particularly in Puerto Rico, where they developed within the island's underground scene during the 1990s, intertwining with hip hop movements in New York and ultimately gaining international prominence. Numerous tracks—ranging from classic deep cuts featured in Playero mixtapes to record-breaking hits of recent years—serve as a testament to the genre's intricate stories and multifaceted evolution.

Cartel Afinke is an eight-member ensemble that has been making its mark on the Adelaide music scene since 2018 by embracing a variety of musical genres. The band showcases a rich array of dynamic songs, demonstrating a level of musicianship and expertise that contributes to their compelling rhythmic energy.

Leading the group are Belinda M Jae, Mario Vasquez, and Jorge Gualdron, who provide vocals and percussion, fostering a strong commitment to collaboration and allowing their artistic instincts to flourish freely.

Meanwhile, the versatile Rodrigo Gonzalez establishes the rhythm on bongos and congas, while Anthony Ranieri maintains the intricate groove on drums, showcasing his drumming skills with remarkable rhythmic accuracy and composure.

Aidan McDonough enhances the sound on keys, accompanied by Sam Morris on guitar, who transforms chords into a vibrant sequence of notes. Lastly, Chi Thapa anchors the ensemble, delivering both rhythmic and harmonic foundations on the bass.

This careful blend of talents and attitudes contributes significantly to the band's overall success and the innovative emotional depth of their music. Discover the emerging Latin genres that are captivating audiences worldwide!