Profile

Orneyocan identifies their music as "Urban Indigi Fusion," blending sounds from the motherland Africa, the Caribbean, North America, and South America. Their sound is both ancient and contemporary. Their musical (and political) philosophy is "cross borders."

Omeyocan's performances mesmerize audiences both young and old. They set an interior spark running wild through each listener's nerves. In performance: the bassist and the percussionist willl trade instruments, or the lead vocalist will play percussion, the lead vocalist will inspire the audience to participate in a dance she creates while she transforms the venue with her many feathers and fabrics.

The rhythm section is the fundamental fire, the pivotal element to their musical creation. Notwithstanding the ferocity of the rhythm section, they are able to concoct a melodic and lyric expression that is raw, unapologetic, and globally informed. The lyrics, politically and spiritually conscious, are delivered in English, Spanish, and Yoruban. This band delivers a unique blend of serious intent, sophisticated execution, and unbridled whimsy.

The members of the band are Caroline Acuna-Guilartes (composer, lyricist, lead vocalist and percussionist), Renaye Acuna-Guilartes (percussionist, bassist, composer, lyricist and backup vocals), Yolanda Bush (drummer, composer, lyricist and backup vocals), and Brian Kent (drummer, percussionist). In 1996 Caroline, Renaye and Yolanda formed "Oyango." Tired of playing other people's music they formed their vision of fusion music. They started solidifying that vision by writing original material focused on Afro-Cuban and flamenco rhythms with a driving edge. They knew they needed another element and auditioned several musicians. Guitarist Quentin Came-Llorente (who appears on the band's recent CD release "Maroon Blood") stepped in to help fill out the band's hard driving, fusion vision and in 1998 the band changed its name to Veronica Black. By 2002 Brian joined the band which is currently known as "Omeyocan". Pat Wilder (guitarist) and Suki (percussionist) are some of the other musicians who work with Omeyocan. Omeyocan also performs as an all-women band.

Omeyocan has delighted and transformed audiences in California and the Southwest at festivals, universities, elementary school clinics, events, political benefits, clubs and dives. Please visit Omeyocan's web-site at: www.omeyocan.org for pictures, a calendar of upcoming events, and other information.

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Contact
www.omeyocan.org
omeyocanmusic@yahoo.com
Omeyocan
799 Castro Street
San Francisco, CA 94114
Tel: (415) 248-1669