Toronto-based group the Battle of Santiago combines classic Afro-Cuban rhythms and vocals with a distinctly Canadian post-rock spirit and sensibility.
While Canada is well-known for its thriving indie rock and electronic scenes, the country is seldom thought of as a Latin music hotbed. But Toronto hosts many thriving immigrant communities including one of the largest Cuban expat communities in North America and the Battle of Santiago is strongly rooted in the citys wealth of Cuban musical talent.
The band's upcoming release La Migra dives deep into Afro-Cuban waters, mixing Afro-Cuban Yoruba chants with subtle electronica and rumbas with post-rock experimentalism. The sound is more than just Radiohead meets Fela Kuti, theres some cumbia tinged with dub anthemic Latin rock and even the smooth funk.
Members
- Daniel Mansilla
- Lyle Crilly
- Joel Perez
- Jason Hay
- Michael Owen
- Reimundo Sosa
- Michael Butler