“Encuentro Theme” Weaves Caribbean, African, And Traditional Jazz Elements Together To Depict Their Diverse Musical Influences
On the heels of the success of their breakout single “Melancolia,” Grammy-Award-Winning Bassist, Composer, Vocalist, and Multi-Instrumentalist Richard Bona and Haitian Grammy-Nominated Jazz Pianist and Composer Reginald Policard have unveiled details for their much-anticipated sophomore single. “Encuentro Theme,” which will be released through the Encuentro label, will be available on all DSPs and https://orcd.co/encuentrotheme starting Friday, June 2.
According to Bona and Policard, the song was inspired by the fundamental philosophy behind the Encuentro record label. Encuentro is a musical meeting between artists from different countries who all love and are inspired by the music of Latin America, the Caribs and even Miami – where most of Encuentro’s artists are based.
The duo says that with Encuentro’s diverse musical encounters, “Encuentro Theme” embodies a statement of what fans can expect from their project in the future. It is “a message of bringing people together through music and encouraging them to dance and live in peace together.”
In addition to Policard and Bona, “Encuentro Theme” includes appearances by Jean Caze on trumpet (who currently tours with Michael Buble), Ludwig Afonso on drums, Teddy Mulet on trumpet and trombone, David Fernandez on saxophone, Hector Quintana on guitar, legendary Sammy Figueroa on percussion, and Edwin Bonilla on congas and timbales. “Encuentro Theme” was produced by Bona.
For more information, follow @encuentromusic.
About Richard Bona and Reginald Policard
Richard Bona is a Grammy-winning musician, one of the most accomplished international bass players, composers and multi-instrumentalists. With his unique sound and vocal gift he is continuously representing his African origins. Bona’s music addresses the continent’s traditions, culture, beauty and issues. His purpose, and the way he connects with his audience has turned him into a staple name in world, jazz and Afropop music.
Bona has toured, composed, recorded, and created musical forms of art with the greatest: Herbie Hancock, Harry Belafonte, Steps Ahead, Quincy Jones, Chick Corea, Buena Vista Social Club, Cesária Évora, Sting, Mike Stern, Pat Metheny, Stevie Wonder, Bobby McFerrin, Chucho Valdés, George Benson, Oumou Sangaré and many more. Along the diverse notable collaborations Richard has also taught Jazz Improvisation at NYU and is constantly teaching and mentoring young talents throughout the world. He’s also a TED speaker and ambassador for various non-profit projects.
Constantly touring around the world and exploring new musical directions, Richard continues to redefine his sound, while still performing live. He’s currently working on new Afrobeats, Afropop, Latin and Flamenco projects throughout Europe, the U.S. and Latin America.
Born in Haiti Reginald Policard was introduced to music at the early age of 10. His first played instrument was the piano, which since shaped his musical career.
Policard first integrated a band in 1969 called Sugar Jazz, that opened the path for several collaboration with other ensembles, particularly the famous Caribbean Sextet, which dominated the music scene in Haiti for many decades and of which he was the band leader and co-founder.
Policard’s discography includes 16 solo recordings and his participation in numerous projects, including films. His album Vinn Avem meaning “Come With Me” was selected to be in the pool of nominees for the Latin Grammys in 1994. He enjoys playing for his fans and his mastery in the piano comes alive every time he performs.
Among many memorable performances, the New Orleans Jazz Festival being a historical jazz music landmark was his most thrilling experience.
He has collaborated with very well-known international musicians such as: Nicole Henry, Ed Calle, Jeff Carswell, Nicky Orta, Sammy Figueroa, Leo Quintero, Joel Widmaïer, Richard Barbot, David Fernandez, Sal Cuevas, Jean Caze, Felipe Lamoglia, David Einhorn and more.
