Austin Vida and Bemba Entertainment Showcase April 8, 2011

Austin Vida and Bemba Entertainment are combining forces again to bring you another "kick ass" event for the Spring season on April 8, 2011 at Flamingo Cantina in Austin, Texas.

Austin Vida by itself has produced several successful showcases featuring exceptional Latin and Latino member bands at Stubb's, The Parish, Ruta Maya and Mi Casa Cantina as well several Listening Parties in association with Nacional Records and Fania Records.

Bemba Entertainment also has a long track record of exceptional showcases in Austin. Bemba Entertainment currently books world music bands for KUT 90.5fm World Music Night every Tuesday at Momo's and has produced several theme based showcases. For example, recent Soul Legends Series, tributes to Isley Brothers, Nina Simone, Rick James and Teena Marie, Bill Withers plus World Beat cruises and music on Lady Bird Lake.

This showcase will feature a local band from Austin, a regional Texas band and a touring band from Kansas City, Missouri. The local Austin, Texas band is Este Vato, a hybrid band which features a DJ, an MC, a horn section and specializes in Latin Fusion, Cumbia and Rock. The regional band from Corpus Christi, Texas is Master Blaster Sound System, a band which includes samples, loops and dance beats mixed by member DJ Dus. Master Blaster also includes talented members from La Conquista and Charanga Cake. The band creates unique music they call "Cumbia Krunk." The touring band is Making Movies, no stranger to Austin, a collective of exceptionally talented musicians which perform Indie music in English and Spanish with a definite Latin flair.

Venue: Flamingo Cantina located at 515 East 6th Street in Austin, Texas

Date: April 8, 2011

Cover Charge: $8 (18 years+) Doors Open at 9:00 PM

Musical Line-up and Times:

Este Vato at 10:00 PM
Making Movies at 11:15 PM
Master Blaster Sound System at 12:30 AM

This special showcase is the best entertainment in Austin on April 8th and features the best musical talent around. The fact that all the bands perform Latin music and have Latinos in the bands is purely coincidental.


Este Vato


Making Movies


Master Blaster Sound System


To keep up with everything "Latin" in Austin, Texas check out Austin Vida's Event's Calender.

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"Between the Sheets - An Isley Brother Tribute" A Smash Hit

Bemba Entertainment's first show of the monthly Soul Legend series took place at Momo's on Friday January 21, 2011. It was a Smash Hit! Brandon Badillo, founder of Bemba Entertainment, chose the Isley Brothers as the first Soul Legend tribute and assembled the unique Bemba Family Soul Band for the series. After hearing the band, Brandon made the right choice in creating the band for the tribute and more so in the selection of the exceptional musicians . The band had the right sound and the right orchestral mix that created the "feel" of an oldies soul band.

Brandon had vintage record giveaways, a special dance performance by Ballet Afrique and also paid tribute to the late, great Teena Marie.

It was a great night for music, dance and fun. The atmosphere was electric, the house was packed and Momo's is always a gracious host. After the show, one thing I found humorous was that the crowd didn't want to leave. They still wanted more, I guess the euphoria from "Between The Sheets" hadn't worn off.

Dan Dyer and Sonia Moore with special guest Sharee Smith did a great job in re-creating the Isley Brothers tunes. Check out the videos of their performances.









The next in the Soul Legend series is "Wild Is The Wind - A Tribute to Nina Simone" on February 19, 2011 at King-Seabrook Chapel located in the Huston-Tillotson University campus, 900 Chicon Street in Austin, Texas.

"Between The Sheets - An Isley Brothers Tribute"

Bemba Entertainment, known for creating unique and fun themed events, is initiating a monthly series dedicated to paying tribute to Soul Music Legends. The first of the series will be "Between The Sheets - An Isley Brothers Tribute" on Friday January 21, 2011 at Momo's in Austin, Texas.

Brandon Badillo, founder of Bemba Entertainment, has assembled a special collection of talented and soulful musicians for this series and event. The band is called Bemba Family Soul Band and Sonia Moore will front this ensemble. Sonia "Saja"Moore, a veteran singer, started singing at age 6 and at 16 was a featured singer in MC Hammer's "2 Legit 2 Quit" album. This will be the second band Brandon has assembled for a show. He put together the Bemba Beat Arkestra for his "Birthday Felabration for Fela Kuti the Creator of Afrobeat" on October 15, 2010 at Red 7. Personally, I've been to numerous Bemba Entertainment events and I thought the Birthday Felabration was the best event ever because of the Bemba Beat Arkestra and the other bands in the line-up. I expect Brandon will do even better with this Isley Brothers Tribute.

The Isley Brothers have been around for a long while, since the 1950's. They combined gospel, R&B, soul, funk, disco for a unique and soulful sound. Some of the more notable songs they've released are "Twist and Shout" in 1962, "This Old Heart of Mine" in 1966 and "It's Your Thing" in 1969, just to name a few songs. The Isley Brothers have influenced all genres of music and musicians and as a result, in 1992 were inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. It is fitting that we pay tribute to such soul legends to keep the legend alive and perhaps introduce the Isley Brothers to a new generation of music lovers.

Event Details: "Between The Sheets - An Isley Brothers Tribute"

Date: Friday January 21, 2011
Time: 10:00 PM - 2:00 AM (Doors Open at 9:30 PM)

Venue: Momo's located 618 West Sixth Street Austin, Texas 78701

Cover Charge: $10.00

Musical Line-up: Bemba Family Soul Band along with DJ Aquaman
Featured Guest: Dan Dyer and Trey Seals



The second show in the series is definitely in the works. Keep up to date with Bemba Entertainment for all shows in the series because they promises good music, good entertainment and fun for your hard earned money.

Afrofreque CD Release Party at Momo's

Last night was the Afrofreque CD Release at Momo's presented by Bemba Entertainment. This is the third time I've seen Afrofreque in the last 30 days and still want more. I saw them recently at the Birthday Felabration for Fela Kuti at Red 7 and at the Funk Freak Halloween Ball at ND at Studio 501, also produced by Bemba Entertainment, and last night at Momo's. They just won me over immediately. They are Funk, Soul, Rap, Hip Hop, R&B and more. All the people at Momo's last night were definitely moved to dance, bounce or sway to the music. I purchased Afrofreque's new CD,"Jewels and Gems," so I get to hear them anytime I want.

I do have to thank Brandon Badillo of Bemba Entertainment for continuously producing numerous themed showcases like the Birthday Felabration and the Funk Freak Halloween Ball which have been great events and experiences. Brandon has the knack of selecting the right musical talent, the right venue and the ability to create a unique experience that people want to attend and then look forward to the next event.

The musical line up last night included Dawni McCray, Adam Rodgers, Soulkitchen, Afrofrique and Courtney Sanchez and SWAY. I did get to record video of Soul Kitchen, Afrofreque and Courtney Sanchez and SWAY. It was an exceptional night for music.







To find out what Bemba Entertainment has planned check out the Bemba Calender.

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Making Movies At Momo's November 2, 2010

Making Movies, a band from Kansas City, Missouri, is on tour and performed at Momo's in Austin, Texas on Tuesday November 2 , 2010 for KUT 90.5fm World Music Night presented by Bemba Entertainment. Making Movies is a band which performs both in English and Spanish but the Latin influence is the dominant flavor. Their music is very Rock, Latin and Pop and really appeals to very broad audience. On Tuesday, aside from their exceptional play list, they played a White Stripes cover song, "Seven Army Nation." To put it mildly, I liked the hell out of their version of the cover version. The song started out with a Latin flair but then morphed into a Santana cover then back to "Seven Army Nation." I was a fantastic blend of two songs and artist. Making Movies is very creative and very original. Catch a performance or two if you can, check Tour Schedule.


Below is video of cover song, "Seven Army Nation," and another exceptional song performed by Making Movies from Tuesday night's performance at Momo's





Bemba Entertainment presents World Music Night every Tuesday at Momo's. Check Bemba's Calendar or Momo's Calender for information. See you there.

Jazz Puerto Rico Brings ¡Sabor! to Momo's

I went to Momo's on September 28, 2010, my usual Tuesday night hang out, to see what Bemba Entertainment had in store. The line up listed Jazz Puerto Rico, Cerronato and Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vatos. Now I'm real familiar with Cerronato and Bubba Hernandez, they are a couple of most my favorite bands that I always enjoy seeing. Jazz Puerto Rico ,though, peaked my interest. I had never heard of the band and really didn't know what type of music they played. Well, it turns out that Jazz Puerto Rico plays Salsa, Cha Cha and Merengue. I've heard and seen several "Salsa" bands and some are good and some are so-so. Jazz Puerto Rico is really good. I was totally impress with their music and musicianship. I liked their sound, the variety of music and they were tight or seamless. When it comes to bands, I like a band with a brass section. The Jazz Puerto Rico section had three trombones and a baritone sax. This band could hold their own in any Salsa club anywhere. The only thing that concerned me about Jazz Puerto Rico was that they are not an active participant in social media. There's just no information on the web. I guess my blog and YouTube videos may be a beginning? Jazz Puerto Rico is a great band and definitely deserves to be seen and heard.

Check out a sample of their performance:

World Beat Cruise with Jai Roots

I had so much fun on the last World Beat Cruise that I again booked another passage. There are several reasons why I was back on the cruise. First, Bembe Entertainment knows how to throw a party. Second, you have a large Capital Cruises party boat on Lady Bird Lake in downtown scenic Austin, Texas. Third, you have liquor, food, DJ Jah Karma and live music. Fourth, Jai Roots & the Herb-n-Café Project was the band for the cruise. I had recently seen Jai Roots and the Project at Momo's and immediately liked them. Jai Roots is very charismatic and has a striking stage presence. The Project is strong musically and cranks up the Reggae and World Beat music. If I had to be on a party boat for "a three hour cruise," I would definitely pick Jai Roots and the Project.

Brandon Badillo welcomes the party people to the third of four Bemba Entertainment World Beat Cruises.



Picturesque view of party go-ers and scenic view from cruise boat.



Jai Roots & the Herb-n-Café Project perform "ChanChan" to get party started.



The final World Beat Cruise of the series will be on September 29, 2010. Don't miss out. You now have a pretty good idea of what the cruise will be like.

Making Movies: A Band Making a Name

Making Movies, a Latin alternative rock band from Kansas City, Missouri, was at Momo's last night. They're touring to promote their new CD, IN DEO SPERAMUS. I had read about Making Movies last year in Café magazine and in their web publication. They drew my attention at that time and when I heard they were coming to the two day Pachanga Latino Music Festival 2010 I was excited. Unfortunately part of the festival was canceled and Making Movies would not perform. I guess I would have to wait for another time. Well, I lucked out because Making Movies finally made it to Austin, Texas. Bemba Entertainment brought in Making Movies for the weekly "World Music Night" sponsored by KUT 90.5fm at Momo's.

Making Movies has definitely made a buzz in the music industry in a short time. Their music was featured on AOL Musica and NPR Weekend Edition, "La Marcha" video is available on iTunes and Making Movies has toured with Grammy winners, Aterciopelados.

I like Making Movies. They blend all of my favorite Latin alternative bands into one creative and very talented group. They perform both in English and Spanish. Their music has influences of Latin, Afrobeat and also combines new music with old Latin and Spanish influences. I also like that their music is edgy and bold but not in your face. The percussion in the band adds depth and also gives it a full Latin flavor. Check these guys out soon and buy their In Deo Speramus CD.

JEZ: New Star in Austin

I'm always looking for the next big artist or band, both locally and beyond. I'm not in the music business but I do share my finds with people who are. You could call me an avid music fan or crazy, hence the name "Manny Go Crazy." Every Tuesday at Momo's, Brandon Badillo of Bemba Entertainment presents World Music Night sponsored by KUT 90.5fm/kut.org. Brandon has provided numerous of my new discoveries because he books many exceptional and diverse acts for World Music Night, as well as other venues and activities.

I was looking through Bemba's and Momo's calenders, the opening act for Tuesday July 13th was JEZ. I had never heard of JEZ so I looked JEZ up. I checked out the MySpace page and YouTube for info and music. There was also a website with an e-mail sign up. I liked what I had seen and heard so I decided I would go. Brandon had also sent me a music link on Facebook of JEZ's current album. When I got to Momo's and JEZ started their set, I was just blow away. Do you remember the Maxwell's man in chair being blown away by the speaker ad? (click on link) Well that was me Tuesday night. Jezarey Barbazcy, known simply as JEZ, is from Houston, Texas and now living in Austin. His band at present lives in Houston. Their music was a combination of Rock, Latin, Folk and Pop. I was impressed with the lyrics and exceptional musicianship of the band. Their music kept me mesmerized for their entire set. I also heard many musical influences in some of their songs. For instance in "Aire" I heard U2 and in other songs I heard Mana, John Mayer to name a few artist.

I've seen a lot bands. These bands have been in various stages of success. They range from just starting out to bands who are touring nationally. JEZ is already at star level waiting to be re-discovered in a new setting, Austin, Texas the "Live Music of the World." The buzz has already started with JEZ's appearance on Fox TV's Good Day-Live Music segment on Tuesday morning, Momo's in the evening, July 13th plus my little blog. I anticipate great things for JEZ and once you see JEZ perform you'll know why.

Arthur Yoria: Songwriter and Singer Extraordinaire

Every once in a while it seems I fall into a musical rut. I go see my favorite bands and listen to my favorite music over and over again. And sometimes to tell you the truth, it seems there are periods where there are no new up and coming bands or talent. I like to keep it fresh by discovering new bands, artist and music. I'll read tons of blogs, scour the The Austin Chronicle, do512.com, austin360 and social media to find those new artist. I will also ask musicians, people I meet at venues and people in the know, "Who do I need to go see?" I get various suggestions and many times I'll make it a point go see a recommended band. Occasionally, I'll come across a band or two that have that something extra special.

I went through a rut this past winter. It was a combination of the extremely cold weather and there just wasn't anybody new out there. Well, on a cold December night I decided to go to Momo's and thanks to Bemba Entertainment I came across Arthur Yoria. Arthur was the last set, the cold kept people at home and it was midnight. When Arthur started playing, I immediately knew Arthur was special. I literally said out loud, "damn this guy is good!" Arthur ingeniously used recorded loops, samples and beats to create music I've never heard before. I liked his stage presence and his demeanor. At that point I decided I had to know more about Arthur the singer/songwriter/musician, meet him and in my small way promote Arthur's music. I've seen Arthur perform several times since then plus I'm also on his e-mail list and Facebook friends. I've gotten to know Arthur on a personal level and he's a down to earth good guy.

Briefly, Arthur was born in Chicago, lived in Houston and circuitously is now in Austin. Arthur has a long list of accomplishment and credits that include songs in TV show, songs in movies and extensive touring. What I'm most impressed with is his variety and extensive catalog of music. When you listen to the lyrics, you get a glimpse of Arthur the person, his heart and his soul and his music delivers the message. Arthur is of Colombian heritage so his music will also include songs in Spanish. Arthur Yoria is that artist that got me out of my rut and brought a breath of fresh air to the Austin music scene. Put Arthur Yoria on your artist/band must see list and you to will say "damn this guy is good" too.

Tortilla Factory, Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vatos and Huerta Culture at Momo's on June 25th, 2010

I like discovering new, up and coming bands and following their progress. This time on June 25th, two iconic and legendary bands, Tortilla Factory and Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vatos, plus a new up and coming band, Huerta Culture will perform at Momo's in Austin, Texas. Mark your calender because this is one of the biggest event of the summer.

I saw Grammy nominated Tortilla Factory perform at Momo's on March 9th of this year and got reacquainted with the legendary 1970's Texas Chicano band. In order to continue the legend, founder Tony Guerrero has handed the reins of the band to his daughter Laura and son Alfredo Guerrero. Although Tortilla Factory still performs Texas Chicano/Tejano music, the new generation has incorporated Funk, Salsa, R&B and Rappers to appeal to a broader audience. This new formula is working well because when I check my music sources and calenders of events, Tortilla Factory's name shows up frequently and at various venues. I recently saw Tortilla Factory perform at Austin's premier Panchanga Latino Music Festival 2010 on May 22nd. Original member Bobby "El Charo Negro" Butler performed with the band. The audience consisted of young and old and based on the crowd's response to the music, Tortilla Factory pleased their loyal established fans and made new ones that will help continue the legend.

On a personal note, I had the privilege of meeting Tony "Ham" Guerrero, his wife Norma, daughter Laura and Bobby Butler at Pachanga. I felt very comfortable talking to the family, there was a genuine warmth and interest. We talked about music, family and upcoming events. I see now how the Tortilla Factory family has been in existence for 37 years because it's not only about the music.



I first saw Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vato back in October of 2008 at Flamingo Cantina. I really didn't know what to expect because this was the first time seeing Bubba and the band perform. I have to say I was thoroughly impressed. They describe their music as "Fiery Bilingual Cumbia-based Pop Rock Songs of Intrigue, Naughtiness, Heartbreak and Other Steamy Delights." I liked the heavy bass, the rhythmic percussion and the dance party feel the music evokes. I've seen Bubba y Los Super Vatos several times since and I look forward to seeing them time and time again. I've gotten to know Cenobia Xavier "Bubba" Hernandez and think he's one "Super Vato." He was a member of the two time Grammy Award winning Polka Rock band, Brave Combo and Grammy nominated, Polka Freak Out. I like talking to Bubba because he's very creative with his music and projects and has positive outlook in life, he has a passion about what he does.



I also saw Huerta Culture perform at Momo's back in January of this year. The band didn't have a name at the time but Kiko Villamizar was just getting the band together. Huerta Culture is now well established and creating a buzz and following here in Austin. I like their music because "Huerta Culture mixes various sounds of Latino rhythms from Cuban son, salsa, Guajiro-style music to Colombian cumbia and reggae fusion." (Source: Austin Vida) It's been a while since I've seen Kiko and Huerta Culture so I'm really anxious to seeing them Friday.




This showcase promises to be an exceptional night of music by a collection of extraordinary Latin musicians. Come to Momo's for the music, for the dancing and the ambiance.

Show presented by World Music Night sponsored by KUT 90.5fm/kut.org and Bemba Entertainment.

Tortilla Factory: The Legend Continues

Tortilla Factory performed at Momo's World Music KUT 90.5 presented by Bemba Entertainment on Tuesday night in Austin, Texas and it was history in the making. I remember the name Tortilla Factory back in the early 70's and hearing them on the radio. They played primarily Texas "Chicano Music" and they filled dance halls throughout Texas and beyond. They were one of the premier dance bands out of Texas along with Little Joe and The Latinaires, Sunny and the Sunliners, the Royal Jesters and the Latin Breed, just to name a few. The Tortilla Factory originated in 1973 and here they are 2010 and still making music.

I had lost track of the Tortilla Factory for several years but was happy to see the band resurface last year with a Grammy nominated CD, "Tortilla Factory and All That Jazz." When I heard that they were going to play at Momo's, I knew I had to go see them. I really didn't know what to expect because I still had visions of the 70's Chicano Music and knew that they had incorporated Salsa into their music. When the Tortilla Factory took the stage, Wow!, they had a complete orchestra of 12 musicians and a commanding stage presence. The five piece horn section, for me, was the focal point and I couldn't wait to hear them. The band's founder, Tony "Ham" Guerrero, was present off stage although the band was under the direction of his son, Alfredo Antonio Guerrero, and his daughter, Laura Lynne Guerrero. Alfredo and Luara were also the lead vocals for all the songs.

The first song was a funky, bluesy song which reminded me of The Tower of Power, which I've seen perform. I was blown away by the beat and the strong, solid brass section and exceptional musical arrangements. Tortilla Factory also mixed in some Salsa music plus used rappers to give a couple 0f their songs an urban appeal. I saw the band perform from 8:00 PM to 12:oo AM and was surprised that the band didn't play any Chicano or Tejano music, mainly because that's where it all started.

Overall it was a fantastic night and I was very glad to see a new and updated Tortilla Factory. They are in fact a legend and have created some fantastic music and history since 1973 . For many reasons, I saw this performance as a debut of the "New Generation" Tortilla Factory. First, I never imagined Tortilla Factory at Momo's. I envisioned them at a huge ballroom or at the Palmer Event Center playing to a large crowd. Momo's is a great venue but does not have the capacity of a dance hall. You play at Momo's to expose yourself to a new audience or possibly crossover. Second, Alfredo and Luara at the helm of the band. With Ham's health a concern, I've read that Ham has given his son and daughters control and direction of the band. Third, I didn't hear the band play any Chicano or Tejano music. They played modern funky, hip, urban music for a younger audience and Salsa music for the broader, mature Latin audience. In order to continue the legend, Tortilla Factory has to appeal to a younger, more hip audience who listens to hip hop, reggaeton and rap. This audience does not listen to Tejano music and the evidence is on MTV, Mun2 and MTV3. Salsa music has broad appeal to both young and old and a large cross section of people. It doesn't mean you have to abandon Tejano music but inorder to continue the legend you have to evolve or re-invent yourself to appeal to the current audience or market. Lastly, Tortilla Factory hired a publicist, Dean Lofton. You hire a publicist to put your name out there to the public who does not know your name.

You need to see Tortilla Factory perform. You will definitely like what you hear and you'll ask yourself "Why haven't I heard this band before?"




You can see Tortilla Factory perform at:
El Sol Y La Luna on March 18, 2010 Austin, Texas
Pachanga Latino Music Festival on May 22, 2010 at Fiesta Gardens Austin, Texas

Review: Austin Vida's Nacional Records Listening Party

I attended Austin Vida's Nacional Records Listening Party on Tuesday March 2nd and had a great time. This is the second Listening Party in this series that I have attended and you will definitely find me at the next party on March 30, 2010.

There are several things I have enjoyed about the Listening Party:

First, I like the venue, Mi Casa Tamales and Cantina at 503 East 6th Street in Austin, Texas. Mi Casa has a long bar where you can sit or just hang out while you watch three big screen televisions. There is plenty of additional sitting with tables and chairs and a long bench sit the length of the venue. Mi Casa not only provides a really comfortable atmosphere, they have tamales! They offer delicious pork, chicken, chicken with verde sauce and vegetarian tamales and they are large and over stuffed with the filling. This fact that they offer tamales as well as drinks sets Mi Casa apart from surrounding venues. Additionally, they have a good sound system and ample floor space for dancing or just standing close to the band or DJ.

Second, the DJ and the music. DJ Chorizo Funk spins some excellent funky, soulful Latin tunes. I've been to a lot of events and venues where the DJ is the focal point and the DJ either makes or breaks the event. DJ Chorizo Funk makes this party happen. He grabs you with his music as soon as you walk in the door and keeps your attention for the rest of the night. I found myself, as well as other people, saying "Damn he's good." The Nacional Records CD releases have also been pretty good with Chocquibtown being my favorite. Check out DJ Chorizo Funk's website,, www.djchorizofunk.wordpress.com and listen to his music, I promise you'll like it as much as I did.



Last but not least, the Give Aways! When you come into Mi Casa, you are given a ticket that will put you into the drawings for prizes. The prizes include copies of Nacional's CD releases, Nacional Records T-shirts and stickers plus the Grand Prize. The past two grand prizes have been pretty good and definitely a good reason to come to the Listening Party. The first party gave away two tickets to Austin's Carnaval and this recent party gave away two tickets to Los Amigos Invisible show on Friday April 2, 2010 at Antone's.

Oh, I almost forgot the most important reason I like the Listening Party, the people I've met. I've met some really cool people and shared some tamales and good conversation. Tuesdays are that much better. Hope to see you there next time.

The Listening Parties are also in association with Bemba Entertainment.