Afro-Andean Funk
The band led by Matt Geraghty, renowned bassist, composer, and producer, alongside the talented vocalist and producer Araceli Poma, twice nominated for the Latin Grammys, breaks cultural barriers by creating a powerful message through their music that fosters pride in identity and unity among Hispanic heritage communities residing in New York.
The music of Afro-Andean Funk, with the notable contribution of Matt Geraghty, serves as a vehicle to keep this heritage alive and promote understanding and respect among all people. Their music encompasses a wide variety of genres, styles, and traditions that reflect the blend of cultural influences throughout history, from Afro rhythms to ancient Andean sounds.
The Birth of Afro-Andean Funk
This project flourished from a serendipitous encounter in a recording studio in Lima, Peru, in 2018. Araceli Poma crossed paths with Matt Geraghty, a renowned American bassist and producer, twice nominated for the Latin Grammy. Matt, in Lima as part of his Just Play project, recognized Araceli's unique talent and invited her to collaborate on an ambitious album and documentary, "The Warrior Women of Afro-Peruvian Music." This project not only explored the rich Afro-Peruvian scene but also laid the foundation for a fruitful musical collaboration.
The Music of Afro-Andean Funk
Afro-Andean Funk not only deeply reflects its roots and history but is also music that finds unity through a diversity of sounds, languages, and stories. The project materialized, releasing its debut album, "The Sacred Leaf," in the fall of 2021. This album, which received a Latin Grammy nomination, stands out for its fusion of shamanic rituals, indigenous culture, and the history of Peruvian indigenous women.
Expressively blending a wide spectrum of traditional and modern musical styles like Afro-pop, huayno, electronic, drum and bass, funk, cumbia, and hard rock, the music of Afro-Andean Funk is a testament to its diverse influences.
Through Afro-Andean Funk, Araceli Poma pays homage to her indigenous Andean musical influences, writing lyrics and singing in Quechua, the native language of her grandparents. She believes that art and music play a fundamental role in combating racism and advocating for marginalized communities.
The music of Afro-Andean Funk serves as a catalyst to demystify cultural differences and build bridges among musical communities.
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