[Si] TV

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Back in March of 2006 I met this dude named Monse under the guise of business deals and artists promotion. He worked for NYC's Hot 97 radio station alongside Angie Martinez. I thought we'd talk about popular radio hits, but instead we talked about his brother, Tato. Tato was leader of a Boricua roots band named  "Tato Torres y Yerbabuena" (not to be mistaken with the world music pop group). I was told there was no better way to hear about the music than to experience it myself, so I was invited to Camaradas in East Harlem that next Thursday.  My cousin and I packed ourselves into the thick crowd that covered every inch of space in the small, trendy bar/restaurant on 1st Ave & 115th street. Moe found me, and introduced me to his brother and other members of the band as they walked up to the stage. It was a warm welcome, and although I hadn't heard anything yet, I had a good feeling about this crew of humble artists. Minutes later the show started and I was transported to a party shack on the edge of the beach somewhere on the beautiful coast of an island I've frequently visited and always miss. The sounds of Yerbabuena made me shake my hips while my heart beat to the heavy congas. I was in love with their melody.

Over the next few months, I visited Camaradas nearly every Thursday and soon Orlando, the bartender, felt comfortable enough to crack on me when I asked if my empanadas might be coming out any time soon. He said with a laugh, "Please! Don't act like you're not here every Thursday and are not already aware of how things work!" It was the Puerto Rican version of Cheers, and I felt right at home. I followed the band to outings at Prospect Park as well and became good friends with both Tato and Niko (percussionist) almost immediately. After the Summer of 2006, my life got a bit hectic and my outings became few and far between but my love for my friends and their group never died. I made it out when I could, but never lost touch.

Weeks ago I was sent info from Tato, Monse and Divine (of the DEY) about an upcoming joint performance at SOBs for Hot 97's "Who's Next?" Granted, I HATE going out on weeknights (my commute sucks) but to see my old friends all in one spot, I was there! I was greeted with the same warmth, same hugs and same banter from those first days at Camaradas. I followed them downstairs to the artist lounge and was mesmerized by their warm-up routines. (Below I'll post a video.) I was embraced by Divine who was hanging in the lounge as well, and whom I had interviewed for Rap-Up just a few weeks before, but hadn't seen in almost a year.

When it was time for Tato & Yerbabuena to perform, I rejoined the crowd so I could observe the experience. Their sound was tremendous, their style unmatched, and with Monse joining them to spit a little something, I smiled at their brotherly love. I was so proud to see them up there, being supported by a dancing crowd that sang along. As cliché as this sounds, it really did give me chills. I love you guys! ;o)

P.S. The DEY were awesome as well, but considering I'm going to see them perform next Tuesday, I'll give them their shine then.

(For more info and updates on Tato y Yerbabuena check out Tato's SiTv blog: http://entertainment.sitv.com/blogs/TatoBrujo and the group's Myspace page: http://www.myspace.com/tatoyerbabuena )

 Backstage vid:

Quick Pics:

Tato Torres

Niko Laboy

Divine