Sergent Garcia

• Genre: Latin Rock
• Hometown: Paris

About

From the multicultural breeding ground of Paris, Sergent Garcia conjures up a powerful concoction of Cuban Timba, Son, Afro-Cuban Jazz, Dancehall Reggae, Soul, rap and Ska. Singing primarily in Spanish (but also in French and English), Garcia's lyrics assault racism, the military, police, and nationalism while joyfully embracing African spirituality and espousing social righteousness. Anchored by a deep rhythm section of congas, timbales, drums, percussion, fat bass, and jazzy piano, the horns -- saxophone, trumpet, and trombone -- swing tightly and soulfully. A young Cuban rapper/backing singer and a funky female vocalist compliment Garcia's energetic leads; the outfit also uses Moog synthesizer, flute, and DJ scratching. A successful mix of diverse elements of the African diaspora, Garcia and his crew have been known to get their audiences jumping and singing along ecstatically.

- Robert Leaver