TIMBALERO EXTRAVAGANZA
by Peter Maiden

Billed as the "Timbalero Extravaganza," Mazacote's March 21 gig at Mr. E's nightclub in Berkeley was an event that pumped up a wall-to-wall crowd. It was a tribute to Louie Romero, Mazacote's leader and timbalero. The tribute was organized by Pedro Sababu-Romero.





At the end of the band's second set, four guest timbaleros--Bosco El Gitano, Richie Velez, Carlos Calo and Benny Velarde--joined Romero on stage, and each ripped out distinctive solos.
Sensational among them was Velez, who usually plays congas for Mazacote and pleased the crowd with especially fast and complex riffs. All the timbaleros were presented with awards from the Salsa Hotline.




Romero, resplendent in a tux with red tie, beamed as he received a gift from relatives: the drum he learned on as a child, one that belonged to his father.

 

Photos © 1998 by Peter Maiden