Chilean sounds are set to thrill (From Stroud News and Journal)

Chilean sounds are set to thrill

PREMA in Uley present a thrilling night of chilled Chilean music with much-lauded band Quimantu next weekend.

Quimantu play a formidable array of instruments, some of which predate the arrival of Columbus in the New World, and others that have their origins in Europe and Africa.

Their shows bring the history of South America through music and give it a sharp contemporary perspective.

Originating from a culture where the sound of tears is as sweet as those of love and celebration, the group's director Mauricio Venegas has developed a unique musical vision that combines European, Celtic, African and other musical genres with those of South America.

This exhilarating blend is brought to life by a group of musicians from Chile, Ecuador and England, whose talents and musical skill are entirely equal to the challenge of creating a musical experience that will enchant and excite.

Formed in 1981 by the Chilean musician Mauricio Venegas-Astorga, Quimantu have since gained a reputation as one of the world's finest South American bands, gaining critical comparison with the major South American groups such as Inti Illimani and Quilpayun.

They have developed a unique repertoire, which gives audiences a fascinating overview of the diversity of South American music and an insight into its musical connections with both Africa and Europe.

Quimantu's music speaks for itself - it seems to come from a bottomless well-spring of poetry, love, sorrow, friendship and sound.

From the haunting melodies of the Andean pan-pipes to the rhythms of Cuban Son, the band is inspired by a desire to discover not only the sound of the past but also of the future.

Quimantu play Prema on Friday, June 10 at 8pm. Tickets, at £9 or £7 concessions, are available from the box office.