LA PERLA + DJ VSPICE

La Perla:

Often referred to as the 3 Colombian drum witches, La Perla is a one-of-a-kind percussion and vocal trio consisting of three of Bogota's best young musicians, whose powerful lyrics combined with intoxicating rhythms make for an unstoppable dance party. They represent and pay tribute to the Colombian Caribbean culture and tradition, while at the same time modernizing the genres with original music filled with politically charged lyrics based around feminism, indigenous struggles, and the power of Latinxs and the global south. A live show will hit multiple genres including bullerengue, cumbia, merengue, gaita, and kreyol champeta, all accompanied by their deep voices and punk rock attitude. La Perla are three powerful modern women playing original music influenced by and based in the folklore of their country, who are also not afraid to challenge the traditions by adding the urban elements which define the contemporary Bogota which has shaped them .

The group has toured throughout Europe in 2019, 2021, and 2022, with a showcase slot at Womex 2021. They have current collaborations with the British saxophone player Nubya Garcia, the hipster Cumbia chaos of Mexican Institute of Sound & Cuba's La Dame Blanche, amongst others.

DJVspice:

Veronica MJ aka DJ Vspice has been active in the Latin music scene for over a decade, performing as a violinist with various Latin musicians and salsa orquestas in Philadelphia, New York, New Jersey, and Delaware. Her Ecuadorian roots have also instilled in her a passion for dance, and she began her salsa dancing journey in Philadelphia taking classes with Laurel Card Latin Dance while also attending rumbas and socials throughout the city. Her love of the music and passion for dance + the dance community quickly lead to her career as a DJ. She spins a vast range of Latin music all over Philadelphia and beyond, with her heart belonging to Salsa Cubana and Timba.