Tata's Latin Ensemble, led by Tata's on vocals, transforms from a mellow trio to a dynamic 8-piece band, offering versatile Latin rhythms for any occasion.

The Mellow Journey with Boleros, blending soft guitar, light percussion, and soothing vocals, creating a relaxed, intimate vibe. Rooted in bossa nova, bolero, and samba rhythms, their music is perfect for romantic or reflective settings, offering gentle melodies and a warm atmosphere. Ideal for cozy venues and laid-back gatherings.

Their performances are perfect for creating a serene, romantic atmosphere, blending rhythmic Latin elements with soft, acoustic textures. The music feels soulful, calming, and deeply expressive without overwhelming the listener.

For the second set, they shift to a more energetic and danceable style, incorporating upbeat Latin grooves like rumba, salsa, and cumbia, inviting the audience to sway and move to the infectious rhythms. Perfect for both cozy settings and lively gatherings, creating a seamless transition from intimate serenades to joyful dancing.

As shown in the video clips, the duo/ trio can expand their lineup for larger celebrations, transforming into a quartet or even an eight-piece ensemble. With additional musicians playing clarinet, bass, timbal, and conga, they bring a vibrant, rich sound that's perfect for big parties and festive gatherings.

The Meaning Behind the Costumes - A Journey through Colombia’s Carnivals, Literature, and Culture in London's Latin Music Scene

Frontwoman, singer, and lyricist, Tata, has been a key figure in London’s Latin music scene since the early 90s. She curates the band’s costumes herself, offering a unique visual experience to accompany their performances. Tata's 8 -piece band Cholao delivers not only the vibrant energy of both Colombian carnivals but also a musical journey that guarantees pure joy every time you see and dance with them. Tata channels the character of Mauricio Babilonia from One Hundred Years of Solitude, the renowned novel by Colombian Nobel laureate Gabriel García Márquez, who has been a source of inspiration for her since childhood. If you’re unfamiliar with his work, now might be the perfect time to discover the enchanting tale of Mauricio Babilonia and the yellow butterflies.

Cumbia, Porro, and Currulao: The Rhythms of Colombian Carnivals

From Coast to Coast:

Barranquilla’s Carnival (Atlantic Coast)
Little is known about the exact origins of Barranquilla's Carnival, though many theories exist. The most popular belief is that the carnival celebrates the arrival of spring and symbolises birth and renewal. Its roots lie in a blend of pagan rituals, Catholic traditions, and ethnic diversity, drawing on European, African, and Indigenous influences in its music and dances. Originally a holiday for enslaved people, it eventually grew into a regional celebration. The main rhythms of the Barranquilla Carnival are Cumbia and Porro.

The Characters:

The Marimondas: One of the most popular costumes, especially for groups of dancers, the Marimondas are figures with long noses, floppy ears, and colorful vests and trousers. Resembling a mix between a monkey and an elephant, the Marimonda embodies the lively spirit of Barranquilla’s people. Cholao’s lead singer proudly puts this costume on the microphone.

King Momo: Inspired by the Greek god Momus, a new King Momo is crowned each year and given the keys to the city. Barranquilla, often called “the golden door of Colombia,” embraces this tradition with enthusiasm. Cholao’s King Momo is represented by Mauricio Reyes, also known as "Pitiko Pulgarín," a fresh talent in London’s Latin scene, he is based in the South of the river Thames.

The Gaitero: A Gaitero is a musician who plays in celebrations across the Atlantic region. One of the most famous groups, Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto, has preserved Colombia’s traditional rhythms since the 1940s. Their music reflects a fusion of Indigenous, Spanish, and Afro-Colombian heritage. Cholao’s Gaitero, Roberto Gonzalo "Chupito" Ceballos, represents the evolution from the traditional Gaita to the clarinet.

Joselito Carnival: A beloved character symbolising the joy of four days and nights of carnival revelry, Joselito is “buried” at the end of the festivities, symbolising the end of the celebrations. His funeral procession includes those who still owe him debts, women claiming he fathered their children, and mourners wishing to continue the festivities. Cholao’s Joselito is played by Fernando Suarez "Kinacho," their sound engineer and bass player, originally from Cartago, Valle, who has been part of the London Latin scene for over three decades.

The Cachaco: A term used for people from Bogotá, Colombia’s capital, "Cachacos" are known for their extreme politeness and elegance. In carnival, there’s always a Cachaco on holiday, embodying this sophisticated charm. Cholao’s guitarist, born in Bogotá and active in London’s music scene since the 90s, takes on this role.

The Gringo: A slang term for foreigners, especially those who don’t speak Spanish, "Gringo" is a playful reference in Latin America. Cholao’s Gringo, .Jimmy Le Messurier, is a talented timbal player. Though born in the UK, he has a Peruvian heart and is one of London’s top Latin percussionists.

La Niña: Representing the youthful spirit of the carnival, "La Niña" is Cholao’s conga player and vocalist, Sarah Wackett "endora" from Endora music. A composer and music teacher from North London, she brings her passion for Latin music to every performance, just as a child would joyfully join the carnival streets.

In any carnival, there is always a Cachaco, a Niña, and a Gringo!

In 2002, the Barranquilla Carnival was declared a Cultural Masterpiece of the Nation by Colombia's National Congress.

The Petronio Alvarez Carnival (Pacific Coast)

Currulao, a rhythm from Colombia’s Pacific Coast, has flourished over the past 27 years at the Petronio Alvarez Carnival in Cali. This annual celebration showcases the talent of musicians from across the region, despite the challenges of racism, inequality, and violence. The Afro-Colombian people of the Pacific Coast have remained resilient, preserving their rich cultural traditions. Known affectionately as "El Petronio," the carnival in Cali attracts hundreds of thousands of people to celebrate the food, fashion, arts, crafts, and music of the region.

Both Barranquilla and Petronio Alvarez Carnivals highlight Colombia’s multi-ethnic and multicultural identity, with their distinct rhythms encouraging everyone to dance, sing, and celebrate together.

CHOLAO IS CUMBIA, PORRO, AND CURRULAO!

Whether you want a cozy, romantic set or a full-blown celebration, Tata's Latin Assemble provide the perfect soundtrack for every moment.