Orquesta el Macabeo is a Puerto Rican “salsa gorda” (hard salsa) group that has been an innovative and unique presence on the Puerto Rican music scene for the last 15 years. Seeing the band live in concert is a one-off experience. Macabeo’s strong commitment to its band identity, in conjunction with its interaction with the public, makes each audience member feel like a part of the show. The band’s lyrics about everyday life, plus its varied rhythms, have made it an international conqueror, enlarging “la familia macabiónica” (the macabionic family) everywhere like never before. During its decade and a half as a band, Orquesta el Macabeo has released four studio albums, one live double album, several EPs, singles, and compilations in different physical and digital formats. In addition to its original compositions, the band has created soundtracks for films, including La Útima Gira (The Last Tour), based on the life of Puerto Rican singer Daniel Santos. What distinguishes Orquesta el Macabeo amongst today’s salsa groups is the harmony and consistency that exists among the members. As the band puts it, “We have retained almost the exact same membership over the years. We love and are touched by our blood relations, but the friendships that become our chosen family are carried in the heart, and the same is transmitted to our audience.” They put on a great show 7/16 on the Millennium Stage.
