I'm shattered with this news of yet another of our most important
drummers leaving this world. Much will be written about Federico
Aristides Soto Alejo "Tata Guines" because he is the founding father
of the "modern" technique of playing tumbadoras. Each time I listen
to him, especially the early recordings from the 50s, I'm amazed at
how he was so ahead of his time and stayed on top of his game until
the end. That incredible sound will reverberate forever in the ears,
minds and hearts of all who heard and saw him. Of all the great
congueros of history, I always default to Tata and find myself
speaking of him and studying him the most when teaching or searching.
Perhaps for that reason it feels like I've lost a family member even
though I only met him once when he came to California with Cubanismo
and they invited Orestes and I to play on a rumba - priceless. We've
learned so much from him that I've been in tears a couple of times
today - such a character, such a unique individual, such a sense of
humor, such a force. Mucho amor y luz pa ti, Tata, and much strength
to his family to deal with the severe blow.
Amazing player. I saw him first with Roy Hargrove's Crisol (along with Anga Diaz, who died way too young), and then as part of an all-star band in Havana.
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