Kesta Happening Magazine January 2015 by Kesta Happening

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ JANUARY 2015

January TABLE OF CONTENTS

7 LATIN ALTERNATIVE

ISSUE # 46

Enjambre

8 SALSA

Tito Nieves

9 BACHATA Andy Andy

10 REGGAETON Nicky Jam

10 REGGAETON

Trebol Clan

13 POP

Ricardo Arjona

14 KESTADC.COM GALLERY

Photos of concerts and DC nightlife

15 UPCOMING EVENTS

Calendar of upcoming events

17 POP

JenCarlos Canela

17 ALTERNATIVE Los Master Plus

18 FEATURED Arcangel

21 INSPIRATIONAL

LeJuan James

24 FOOD

China Chilcano

28 STYLE

Marsala 2015

30 KESTA EPIC PICS

Some of our favorite pics of the month

32 LO NUEVO

Puerto Candelaria

32 HEALTH

Stick to your New Year’s Resolutions

33 LOCAL TALENT La SalvadoReina

33 ECHOSTAGE LINEUP

This month at Echostage

35 ALBUM REVIEWS

Prime Ministers & Kat Dahlia

36 KE PASÓ PUBLISHER: Media644.com / DIRECTOR: Juan Luis Gonzalez / EDITOR: Rosario Garcia, Assoc. Editor: Ellen Flores DESIGN: Miriam Jave / WEB & TECHNOLOGY: Javier Gonzalez / WRITERS: Alicia Yim, Ellen Flores, Malayna Butler, Sarah Barrie, Daniel Martinez, Jazmin Moral, Rosario Garcia, Juan Leon, Kala Fryman, Carolina Zambrana, Manuel Mayor, Jenny Osoria, Darlene Campos / SALES: Jose Acha, William Espinoza, Francisco Ochoa, Julio Zilleruelo INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? info@kestamag.com / tel: 202 643 0555

Molotov & Don Omar

36 LOVE ADVICE

Love, dating & relationship advice

37 KE?

Win tickets to Disney on ice & Raúl Romero

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LATIN ALTERNATIVE

By: Ellen Flores

hen you combine acid rock, 60s, 70s and progressive rock sounds with modern arrangements you get the best soundtrack for a musical escape. This fusion, this sound is the band known as as Enjambre. Before trekking off to this year’s edition of Vive Latino, Mexico’s premiere festival –and the most important festival of the year in Latin Rock- Enjambre will be rocking the intimate and exclusive stage at DC’s hidden gem Tropicalia on Saturday, February 7th.

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Mexico is the home of some of the biggest names in Latin Rock, its fertile grounds reap and sow musical talent through every inch of its vast and supple musical landscape, evolving and keeping vanguard of the musical trends to come. Towards the end of the 90s, the Navejas brothers (Luis Humberto and Rafael) together with Ángel Sánchez, played in a band called “Los Cuatro Fantásticos” (The Fantastic Four). With an impressive style

that fused punk, rock, and grunge mixed up with ballads, the guys grew their musical talents and passion. With a zip code change to Santa Ana, California, Luis and Rafael made the jump to the US in search of new musical inspiration. Here, they joined forces with Nico Saavedra and Osamu Nishitani, together they formed a new group under the moniker of “Enjambre”.

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Fast track to 2004 and Enjambre releases their first full length album “Consuelo en Domingo.” Their determination to play any and all stages earned them respect and a cult following in the underground music scenes throughout the United States. The word got out and the guys received their first three nominations in the rock category of Univision’s Premio Lo Nuestro Awards. Lineup changes ensued, Nico and Osamu parted ways from the band and younger brother Julián (Navejas) joined the band to play keyboards and rhythm

guitar. Los Cuatro Fantásticos’ drummer, Ángel Sánchez joined the Navejas brothers again on the drums. Javier Mejía joined to play lead guitar, Luis Humberto continued on vocals and Rafael stayed on bass guitar. With the new formation in place, they released their second album “El Segundo es Felino” produced by the youngest of the Navejas brothers, Julián. With their massive following in Mexico and rising popularity, the band packed up their gear and moved to Ciudad de México to continue to perform and grow their fan base.

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Enjambre continued on and recorded their next album Daltónico which spawned the singles “Visita”, “Madrugada” and the breakout hit “Dulce Soledad”. With Daltónico the band was invited to perform at the prestigious Vive Latino festival in 2010. As if that weren’t enough, Rolling Stone Mexico named Enjambre’s album as the one of the best albums of that year. The guys took these milestones as inspiration and released their fourth album

“Los Huéspedes del Orbe” that featured the hit “Somos Ajenos.” With this fourth album, the band highlights their fusion of climactic moments, lyrics, muses, picturesque melodies with a progressive rock vibe.

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With the New Year upon us, the guys from Enjambre are hitting the road to tour in the US with their newest studio album “Proaño.” With this new album the band has captured and shared with their fans the recording sessions with a series 11 video chapters that debuted on the band’s website prior to the release. The good fortune of 2015 favors DC with the first stop in their exclusive US tour leg on Saturday, February 7th, before they head off to Mexico to play this year’s edition of Vive Latino in March. Don’t miss your chance to witness firsthand what thousands wish they could, experience the live musical emotion of Enjambre in an intimate setting only possible here in DC! For tickets visit: www.tickeri.com. █

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SALSA

By: Kala Fryman

Tito Nieves, known as the “Pavarotti of Salsa” because of his distinct and powerful voice, was one of the leading salseros in the late 70s-90s during New York’s salsa heyday, and still continues to mesmerize salseros and tropical music lovers with his unforgeable voice and classic songs. Born in Puerto

Rico and raised in NYC, Nieves grew up in a family of musicians and composers and began playing drums and guitar at an early age, influenced by tropical sounds as well as pop and blues. In an interview Nieves remarked, “In 1975 I decided that music was my calling. At that point I was full of dreams and would look at Fania All Stars photo with all those big artists and all I could think is what I could do to get to them, to be near Tito Puente, Johnny Pacheco and Celia.” The first steps of his salsa career were with NY based Orquestra Cimarron, which led him to eventually working with Hector Lavoe in 1977 as a singer in the orchestra Conjunto Clasico. Nieves began to distinguish himself within the salsa scene and was part of numerous orchestras and working with salsa greats. His final orchestra, Orchestra La Massacre, played the traditional style of salsa popular in New York at the time while showcasing Nieves’ voice front and center. In 1988 Nieves decided to go solo and released his first album, The Classic, in which he further distinguished himself by being one of the first salseros to sing in English. Speaking to the bilingual Puerto Rican/Latino diaspora in New York, singing in English gave Nieves an edge over other salseros and also made salsa more accessible and appealing to non-Latinos and even non-Spanish speaking Latinos. Nieves’ bilingual salsa broke language barriers in a way that had never been done before in salsa, and he was able reach diverse populations with his music, regardless of their native language. The Classic contained hit song “Sonambulo” and went gold upon such popular reception as a solo artist. Nieves’ next album release, Yo Quiero Cantar, was a pivotal moment in his career. The song “I’ll Always Love You” added two more gold records to his accolades and was also the first English language salsa song to top charts in both the United States and Puerto Rico. Throughout the 90s Nieves continued to release albums and churned out

more hits such as “De mi Enamorate” and “You Bring me Joy,” however Nieves’ most notable hit “I Like it Like That” quickly became an anthem of the 90s and ushered him into mainstream, becoming a permanent fixture in pop culture. The original, which was intended to be a hit for boogaloo singer Pete Rodriguez in the 60s, was reinvented by Nieves and the Blackout All-Stars to be the title song of the movie I Like it Like That. Transforming the song into a classic 90s dance jam with vibrant tropical influences earned Nieves further success in the domestic and international music market. The immensely popular song could be heard not only in clubs and on radios across America, but also alongside TV shows in commercials and even at sporting events (no surprises here that it was included on Jock Jams 3!) Nieves has continued to release albums well into the 2000s, and most recently his 2013 release of Mis Mejores Recuerdos, which included a vallenato version of his hit “Porque Me Enamore?” If you’re looking the perfect way to woo that special someone this Valentine’s Day, look no further than a live performance with the Pavarotti of Salsa himself on February 13th at The Palace in Woodbridge, VA. Dance and sway the night away to his classic salsa hits with the perfect amount of cheesiness, and romance to make for an extra special Valentine’s Day! Tickets and more info available at www.tickeri.com. █

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BACHATA

By: Sarah Barrie

predominated by artists like Julio Iglesias, Camilo Sesto, and Rocío Durcal, Leonardo Favio.. As for more contemporary artists.. Alejandro Sanz, Marco Antonio Solis (El Buki), Laura Pausini, and Juan Luis Guerra.

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Kesta Happening: At what moment did you realize that you were going to have a career in music? AA: When I was 5 years old, I asked my dad to buy me a guitar, even though I didn’t know how to play it. I was always singing at school, at friend’s birthday parties, at any event. When I was 11, I signed up to participate to sing at a festival without telling my parents, all of the other contestants were adults, and there were two teenagers, myself who was 11, and another who was 15. It was then that my inclination towards music was declared. KH: What inspires you? AA: The woman inspires me. The relationship between a woman and a man, the relationship between two people. KH: Who are your biggest musical influences? AA: Growing up, my parents always listened to music at home, it was a time of romantic music that was

Kesta: What has been the most significant achievement of your career? AA: I think aside from the nominations, awards, and recognitions, and acknowledgments, one thing is very prominent in my career that I value a lot, was when I was invited by Sony to record bachata. At the time it was a genre generalized with the Dominican genre, but not one had yet conquered the hearts of other nationalities. Only Juan Luis Guerra had broken that schema with his album Bachata Rosa, and internalized the name of bachata. When I recorded my first album, I added the accordion, violin, and other ingredients that bachateros hadn’t used before. I took a risk trying to reach a broader audience. Winning over Central American, Mexican, South American, and Puerto Rican audiences, and audiences of other nationalities, for me that has been my greatest achievement and blessing. KH: Which of your songs best represents you? AA: “Que ironía” and “Sentado en el muelle de la bahía”. KH: What advice would you give to other artists? AA: To thank God for your talent, pursue your dreams, be persistent, and above all, do not harm anyone ever. No matter

how hard things get, never hurt anyone to achieve for your own wellbeing. Also to be thankful to fans because they are the ones who maintain our careers. ANDY ANDY is currently working on his next album which is scheduled to be released in the spring of this year and will include hit singles such as “Soy de llorar”, “El cariño es como una flor”, and “Yo te amo”, as well as a few new tracks including “Amor deportado” a duo with Alexandra of Monchy and Alexandra. ANDY ANDY is currently making his way to the DMV and will be performing live on January 16th at Diamond Lounge in Alexandria, VA. He assured me it will be a show full of emotion and plans to make it an unforgettable night for fans. Tickets are $30 for general admission. Doors open at 8 pm, show starts at 11 pm. For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit www.tickeri.com. █

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REGGAETON

/ JANUARY 2015

By: Ellen Flores

By: Malayna Butler

Peruse NickyJamTV on YouTube and you will be easily entertained with a variety of clips into the funny, yet complex world of this artist who knows firsthand what it’s like to lose it all. This reggaetonero’s sense of humor and unique personality are brought to life as he takes on a starring role as the Don Juan of aliens from outer space, an “Extraterrestre Sesy” [sic] using filters to distort his face and voice. In another post he interviews a rubber chicken and if that doesn’t make you laugh, I don’t know what will. You get the sense that he truly appreciates his fans, he has a great sense of street style and that he is truly thankful to be enjoying life again after such a hard fall. Nick Rivera Caminero is one of many who started at the bottom and rose to the top. But unlike some others, he has had to rebuild his career from scratch. He was born in Boston, Massachusetts to a Puerto Rican father and a Dominican mother on March 17, 1981. At the age of 10 the family moved to Puerto Rico but life was hard. In order to contribute to the family’s earnings he worked at a grocery store and during his breaks he improvised rap lyrics and started to gain some attention. A woman from a record label took notice of him and thereafter his first album “Distinto a Los Demas” (1994) was created when he was only 11. Although he had very little experience in the industry it led to exposure to some of reggaeton’s most influential producers such as DJ Joe and DJ Playero. He later released “Haciendo Escante” (2001), “Salon de la Fama” (2003), “Vida Escante” (2004), “The Black Carpet” (2007) and “The Black Mixtape” (2008) which featured Yaga & Mackie. Nicky Jam greatly admired Daddy Yankee growing up and eventually they came to work together for a stint known as “Los Cangris” but later separated. They have reportedly reconciled and in an interview Nicky admits that he was not as disciplined as DY who was more focused at the time. He also revealed that drug use and money contributed to the downward spiral in his career. Wellknown songs released during Nicky’s “Old School” days include “Yo No Soy Tu Marido” and “Me Voy Pal Party”. After hitting rock bottom and without being signed to a label, in order to resurrect his career and regain a handle on life he moved to Medellin, Colombia, where he worked to save up money and has used social media platforms to make a comeback in a big way. Now he’s working with big name producers again such as El

Musicologo and Menes and has also collaborated with DJ Urba and Lil Wizard. Furthermore, he has had videos directed by Jose Javy Ferrer the “Go To” for today’s urban Latin music artists and has appeared on “Sabado Gigante” with Don Francisco. Following the release of his seventh and most recent album “NickyJam.7” (2013) and the success of his hit “Travesuras” a remix was released featuring De La Ghetto, J Balvin, Zion & Arcangel. Farruko whom he considers a friend, released a remix of “Yo No Soy Tu Marido” feat. Nicky and Nicky also has plans to work with J Alvarez, another friend that he’s made along the way. Also this singer of “Voy A Beber” has had the opportunity to perform at Madison Square Garden in April 2014 on the same stage as J Balvin and De La Ghetto which was a humbling experience. There is talk that “Imperio Nazza: Los Cangris Edition” is to be released with Daddy Yankee this year in addition to “Imperio Nazza: Nicky Jam Edition”. Although he’s stumbled in the game, now the married father of four is also helping to lead others into the business by hosting a competition among fans to see who could come up with the most original new version of “Travesuras” and requesting that they post their videos on YouTube. The contest included 800 participants in 22 countries! You can see Nicky Jam live Friday, February 20 at Galaxy Nightclub in Hyattsville, MD. For tickets and information visit, www.tickeri.com! █

aking noise since the very beginning of the Reggaeton movement, Los Bacatranes, Trebol Clan have been making waves across the world with their fusion of cutthroat rhymes and sensual beats. They’ll be invading the stage at Club One in Alexandria, Virginia on Saturday, January 10 and Kesta Happening is going to be there, ready to dance and sweat the winter blues away with this iconic Reggaeton group! Trebol Clan are no strangers to the scene. Beginning in the late 90s and rising to the top in the year 2000 on the album “Los Genios Musicales”, Trebol Clan joined forces with the mastermind producer DJ Joe who took the chemistry in the group and transferred it to the beats we now know Trebol Clan for. The breakout moment for Trebol Clan came when their album “Fatal Fantasy” surpassed the 50,000 units sold mark, a huge accomplishment in the rising and competitive Reggaeton genre. Fatal Fantasy’s success took them to record more volumes under the same but then ultimately led them to their masterpiece “Los Bacatranes” which served as a moniker for the group and is now a standard in old school Dembow and reggaeton. Nowadays, when you go to a club and tracks like “Baila Conmigo”, “Gata Fiera” and “Agárrala” start blastin’ the dance floor gets flooded with bodies swaying side to side with the heavy and classic perreo beats that these Trebol Clan songs have in the musical conscious of fans. It’s no surprise that these songs still have star power, they were featured on some of the hottest albums in the game. Trebol Clan has collaborated on “Gargolas” ( Vol. 2 through 4) Luny Tunes “Más Flow” and most notably Don Omar’s “The Last Don” where the group performed at Don’s sold out show in the Coliseo Roberto Clemente in Puerto Rico. This performance is still regarded as one of the most influential performances in the evolution and propagation of the Reggaeton genre to a global scale. Currently, Trebol Clan evolves and collaborates with the biggest names. Jowell & Randy, J-King & Maximan, Tito El Bambino and even J Alvarez have teamed up with these Bacatranes to produce tracks that are taking over the top of the Latin Urban charts. It seems as though anything Trebol Clan touches turns to gold. Just goes to show that this Trebol Clan is so much more than just a good luck charm! Get your tickets now for this show on January 10th at Club One at www.tickeri.com and let loose with Trebol Clan! █

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FUSION

By: Rosario Garcia

WE RECENTLY CAUGHT UP WITH HELADO NEGRO’S MASTERMIND, ROBERTO CARLOS LANGE, AN ECUADORIAN SINGER AND PRODUCER BORN IN FLORIDA, AND RESIDING IN NEW YORK, WHO ERADICATES CULTURAL BARRIERS AND SEAMLESSLY FLOWS BET WEEN ENGLISH AND SPANISH IN HIS LATEST ALBUM, “DOUBLE YOUTH”. The release of this latest Helado Negro album is climatic in a similar way that seeing a recurring dream come true would be. The album unfolds patient melodies with rapid techno pulses and inspires dream-like sounds and sequences. Lange took a few minutes to speak with Kesta DC about the journey to making his latest album and why his childhood played such a big role in its existence. Kesta: Congratulations on your latest album release “Double Youth”. I was enthralled by the inspiration for this album, can you tell me more? Helado Negro: Thank you. Yes, it started soon after I finished my last record last year. I knew I had an idea in my mind and it really came together in an indirect way one day when I was going through a box of mementos in my parent’s house. There was an old tattered poster of me in a carnival type pic with another boy. It brought about so many questions, because I couldn’t remember the origins of the picture at all. It started an exploration of memories and thoughts of getting older. I started thinking about all the experiences we forget about, the ambiguous trajectory that we end up building memories on top

of, it inspired me to start composing and that’s how Double Youth was born. I knew right away that that childhood picture would be the cover art of the album. Kesta: So you wrote the entire album at home? Helado: Yes, I typically make the music at home. In this case I put the picture on my wall and it was there staring back at me while I worked on different songs on the album. Eventually, I had a vague memory and put this together that the picture was from a County Fair in Miami. As some memories started to come back I wanted to capture the exactness of the moment. Double Youth is about that experience of interpreting those special moments in our life that we’re excited about. That started the ball rolling and then I started to tackle all the pre-created traditions on what are “supposed” to be the important milestones in your life (i.e. weddings, births, funerals, and religious occasions)… and so many other significant things in your life that happen that get pushed to the side. Kesta: I noticed that the songs fluctuate between English and Spanish? Is that how you hear the songs in your head? Helado: Because I live in a place where I speak English and Spanish, the aspect of Spanglish and having these two cultures is constantly in my head. Sometimes it feels like the languages are working with and against each other. This duality of being a Hispanic American and speaking both languages and going between these two personas, is what I’m about. I treat my voice in a general as an instrument in a sense. So I’ll be writing a song and make noises with my mouth to sound out what I want the song to sound

like. After I’ve done that I go back and add lyrics to the song and depending on the sound I want, it can be in English or Spanish. Speaking both languages is very useful when you’re tying the picture of the music and the lyrics together… Kesta: Do you have a favorite song off the album? Helado Negro: I like them all but if I had to pick I guess it would be “Ojos que no ven.” Ojos que no ven was inspired by something a friend of a father said, he used to be able to see and then lost his vision, “the interesting thing about becoming blind

is your friends never get old.” It’s such a lovely thought and an optimistic way to embrace something. Helado Negro plays DC9 on 10/8 with Sinkane. For more information visit: www. heladonegro.com █

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POP

By: Sarah Barrie

Arjona landed a role on the Mexican telenovela, Alcanzar una Estrella, which gave him an opportunity to really showcase his musical talent to a broader audience. By the release of his fourth album, Animal Nocturno, which sold more than half a million copies, Arjona had established himself as a superstar. Also known as “El Animal Nocturno” (The Nocturnal Animal), Arjona possesses a unique lyrical style which encompasses ballads, Latin pop, rock, and a cappella style of Cuban, Tejano, and Norteño music. His sings about love, sexuality, violence, racism, immigration, and social activism, and has numerous chart topping hits which include songs such as “Fuiste Tú, “El Problema”, “Como Duele”, and “Te Quiero”, among many others. Singing since he was 11 years old, Ricardo Arjona participated in “Festival Infantil 74’ at age 12 performing “Gracias al Mundo”, a song composed by his father, and ended up winning. He wrote his first song a year later. By age 21, he produced his first album. Aside from his passion for music, Arjona is a jack of many trades. He is also a talented basketball player. He played on the Guatemalan national team, with whom he toured throughout Central America. In addition, he spent 5 years as a primary school teacher before eventually moving to Mexico to pursue his music career. Once in Mexico,

Over the following years, Arjona’s success continued to grow, winning countless awards, nominations, and acknowledgements, including a Grammy Award for Best Latin Pop Album and a Latin Grammy for Best Male Pop Vocal Album for Adentro (2005), a Latin Heritage Award, and a Lo Nuestro award, among many others. At the Orgullosamente Latino Awards of 2010, Arjona was declared “Latin Trajectory of the Year”. Arjona’s tremendous success has transformed him into a music icon. Along with any rise to fame, however, it does not come without some criticism. Some have poked fun at Arjona’s lyrics by turning them into internet meme, particularly ones that joke about his hit single, “El Problema”. Arjona’s serious face is shown with phrases such as “El problema no es ‘la novia,’ el problema es ‘la suegra’”, among many other variations. In fact, there’s even an entire Facebook page dedicated solely to Arjona memes, as well as various websites with specialized Arjona meme generators where you can create your own. I guess as the saying goes, imitation is the finest form of flattery.

Ricardo Arjona is currently on his 2015 Viaje Tour, promoting his 2014 album, Viaje which was nominated for a Latin Grammy for Best Singer/Songwriter. Arjona describes the album as a “voyage of emotions” and features hit singles “Lo Poco Que Tengo”, and “Apnea”. The tour started off with a bang, by selling more than a half million tickets in South America alone. The Viaje set features a train station setting more than 60 feet tall, more than 200 robotic lights. When asked about his Viaje tour in a recent interview, Arjona showed his excitement for performing in the US and commented on how it’s a special place for him, “We go to Mexico, and we sing for Mexicans. We go to Argentina, and we know we are going to sing to Argentines, but when you’re on stage in the United States, you sing to all of Latin America”. Arjona will be performing at the Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA on March 1, 2015 at 6 PM. Tickets are $75165 and can be purchased via ticketmaster.com. For more information visit, www.kestadc.com. █

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KESTADC.COM GALLERY

Don Omar @ Echostage 12.19.14

Photos by: José Acha

Molotov: Kesta RoXmas Party @ The Howard Theatre 12.13.14

Honda Civic Tour: Los Rakas & 3BallMTY @ Fillmore 12.11.14

Photos by: José Acha & Daniel Martinez

Photos by: Daniel Martinez

El Chapo de Sinaloa @ The Palace 11.28.14

Photos by: José Arrieta

Regalando Sonrisas @ Bier Baron 11.16.14

Photos by: Daniel Martinez

December Nightlife

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KESTA HAPPENING DC FEATURED EVENTS Fri 01.09 Sat 01.10 Fri 01.16 Fri 01.16 Fri 01.23 Fri 01.23 Sat 01.31 Sat 01.31 Sat 02.7 Fri 02.13 Fri 02.13 Sat 02.14 Fri 02.20 Sat 02.21 Fri 02.27 Sun 03.01.15 Fri 03.20

Marisela de Montecristo @ Cameo1720 Trebol Clan @ Club One T.I @ Echostage Andy Andy @ Diamond Lounge Los Master Plus @ Tropicalia LeJuan James @ Cameo1720 State Symphony Orquesta of Mexico @ GMU Center of the Arts Alexis y Fido @ Cococabana Enjambre @ Tropicalia Juan Gabriel @ Patriot Center Ivy Queen, Luis Vargas, Yaunford @ El Boqueron Frank Reyes @ Cococabana Anthony Santos @ Trio Restaurant Baltimore Arcangel @ Cococabana Hector Acosta el Torito @ Cococabana Arjona @ The Patriot Center RaĂşl Romero @ The Howard Theatre

For more information and many more events go to KESTADC.COM

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FAMILY

/ JANUARY 2015

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POP

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ALTERNATIVE

By: Sarah Barrie

years. He was named Artist of the Year by the 2013 awards show Premios Juventud, and his hit bilingual track, “I Love it” got nominated for Video of the Year at the 2014 Premio Lo Nuestro. This New Year’s Eve 2015, Jencarlos was honored by being the first-ever Latino artist to activate the New Year’s Eve ball drop from Times Square in New York; an event broadcasted live around the world and seen by millions. This significant recognition was a result of his work not in the music and acting world, but for his humanitarian work and role as a spokesperson for the refugee resettlement organization, International Rescue Committee (IRC), which helps people displaced by war, conflict and natural disasters. At just 26 years old, Jencarlos has proved himself time and time again to be one of the most promising young stars in the industry. He has performed at more than 200 concerts worldwide, appeared on the big screen in Hunted by Night, and has also starred in popular telenovelas such as Más Sabe el Diablo (The Devil Knows More), Pasión Prohibida (Forbidden Love), and Pecados Ajenos (The Sins of Others). Jencarlos was named “Best Young Actor” by the prestigious FAMA award and was recognized by the magazine People en Español as one of the 50 Most Beautiful People, and one of the Top 25 Best Looking Men. With his stunning good looks and multiple talents, it comes as no surprise that Jencarlos is a favorite among the ladies. Born in Miami, Florida to Cuban parents, Jencarlos started his musical career when he was just 12 years old as the lead singer of Boom Boom Pop. After a couple of successful years with the group, Jencarlos began working on his soloist career in 2002. Under the independent label Bullseye Music Entertainment, he produced his first album, Búscame, which debuted at #2 in 2009, and in 2011 his second album Un Nuevo Día topped the charts at #1 during the first week it was released. One of the most versatile and diverse artists on the Latin music scene today, Jencarlos has worked with various A-list Latin talents such as Pitbill in his hit single “Tu Cuerpo”, and with Emilio Estefan, to record the motivational track, “Sueña”, which was used for Telemundo’s coverage of the 2012 Summer Olympics. The song was also considered to be the official song of Miss America 2013. Jencarlos has achieved even more success in recent

This month, Jencarlos Canela kickedoff his world tour, Jen And The Fam 2015 where he will be touring throughout the US, Central America and the Caribbean, Spain, and Romania, performing hot singles from his new album, Jen such as “Tu Sombra” (feat J.Balvin), “I love It”, “Junto a Ti” (feat Zion y Lennox), and “Irreparable”. Jencarlos will be performing at the Fillmore in Silver Spring on Friday, February 20, 2015 at 8 PM. Tickets are $38.00 for general admission and can be purchased via ticketmaster.com. █

By: Rosario Garcia

his kitschy Mexican duo first danced their way into our hearts a couple of years ago with their designer Mexican dreads and epic mustaches. I still remember the infamous words El Comanche and Larry Mon of Los Master Plus whispered to me last year, “Kissing someone without a mustache is like eating tacos without salsa.” Ay, ay, ay! According to their latest website poll, most people prefer their mustaches “arremolinao” with 44% of the votes, while “motociclista maton” is second at 28%. For those of you in the dark, Los Master Plus are a tongue-in-cheek parody cover band recreating hits by No Doubt, Dr. Dre, and Radiohead and turning them into cumbia, tribal, electronic Mexican corrido norteño sensations. You’ll have your chance to see Los Master Plus again when they visit Tropicalia on January 23, 2015. Before you head over to get your dancing shoes for the show, listen to our top 5 Master Plus picks!

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You may recognize this catchy beat as belonging to Dr. Dre and Snoop Dog’s “Next Episode” hit, however, Los Master Plus have given this the Mexican royal treatment complete with rapper limo video, and some sexy club dancing. It’s truly a gem! Also a remake of No Doubt’s “Don’t Speak”. Staying close to the original only with Spanish lyrics, there’s still something about Larry Mon and El Comanche calling you “Mami” while they invite you to a “tejuino” (a Mexican fermented corn drink typical of the northern states of Mexico) that makes this one disarmingly cute. This reimagining of Radiohead’s “Creep” doesn’t miss a beat converting this sad song into a slow Mexican ballad about being a stranger and not knowing where you belong. It’s. The. Sweetest. Thing. This cover of ‘Kins’ of Leon’s “Sex is on Fire” is the track responsible for Los Master Plus surge to fame. Born in a Karaoke style DJ night, their cover became such a big hit locally that they decided to make a video and called it “Sexo en Fuego”. It featured some digitally added beaches and babes as they sang “Tu sexo esta en fuego”. The video earned them tons of hits and gave birth to Los Master Plus one-of-a-kind style. Things are moving up for Los Master Plus. This is one of their latest songs and the video features a real beach complete with lambada dance party. The song is guaranteed to get you dancing (with or without the lambada) even the EDM mid-break is catchy. Make sure you check out these tracks in time for the concert on January 23rd and see you at Tropicalia! For tickets and information visit: www.tickeri.com. █

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

FEATURED

/ JANUARY 2015

By: Manu Mayor

ustin Santos, better known as Arcangel, is not your typical reggaeton artist. How many reggaetoneros admit to being EDM and Rock music fans? He goes as far as to name those two, as his favorite genres. Add that to being the son of a Dominican merenguera, who achieved success with Las Chicas Del Can in the 80â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. So, how does he end up being one of the top exponents of the Reggaeton genre? According to Arcangel himself, he has the voice for it. Judging from his many, many fans, he is onto something. Arcangel grew to love reggaeton after listening to Tego Calderon. He found the older style of Reggaeton to be too minimal in its sounds, but the newer style with more instruments, and more variety appealed to him. He was born in New York, in the Spanish Harlem. After becoming interested in reggaeton, he decided to move to Puerto Rico in 2002. It is there, that he formed his first Reggaeton group called Arcangel & De La Ghetto.

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rcangel & De La Ghetto were able to get some tracks into Reggaeton compilation albums. It was in 2006, that a track they had in Hector’s “El Father” compilation album called “Sangre Nueva” made them known. The track, “Ven y Pegate” was a somewhat of a hit. So you think you know what follows right? Hit song in a mix-tape album, then get a deal, then make an album, gets released and booom! A star is born, right? Well... no. This is where Arcangel’s story differs from most artists of the genre. Arcangel & De La Ghetto did get a deal from Baby Records. They worked on an album and according to Arcangel, he even invested heavily into the production himself. What happened between him and the label is not clear and we don’t want to speculate. What is clear however is that the somehow the WHOLE production was leaked online before a release was even planned. The label scrapped any plans to release it at all. So what’s an Arcangel to do? He starts his own label.

The year 2007 marked the end of Arcangel & De La Ghetto as a group. For Arcangel, this time on his own, it was back to the compilation grind. He got some tracks into DJ Nelson’s compilation album, Flow La Discoteca 2. One of those, became the well-known song, “Chica Virtual”. This song became popular in the Latin radio airplay circuit in the States, rising to #9 in the Billboard Latin Airplay charts at one point. Arcangel was finally making his mark.

After he established his label Flow Factory and appointed his mother as manager, Arcangel was finally ready for his first commercial album release. In late 2008, what was technically his debut album, “El Fenomeno” came out. After his success, Arcangel was offered a great deal by red-hot label, Piña Records. In 2013, it was with Piña Records, that he released his latest studio album, “Sentimiento, Elegancia y Maldad.”

“Chica Virtual” announced Arcangel’s smooth, deliberate style. A slow tempo mellow track, with electro touches, something that would become somewhat of an Arcangel signature. While “Chica Virtual” might have been news to the reggaeton scene in the states, ironically and thanks to the leaked album, Arcangel was already a known artist in Puerto Rico. At least in the reggaeton scene. Additionally, Arcangel went on to distribute that same leaked album through his website and file sharing sites, calling it “La Maravilla”. It was out of that, very unusual release, that “Pa’ Que La Pases Bien” spread around and became a very popular song in 2008.

ustin Santos’ journey as an artist, definitely had some bumps on the road. What do you do when all of your hard work is leaked? Before you were even close to ready for its release? Not to mention losing lots of money on it... Do you become bitter and blame your lack of success on that? No, not Arcangel. He pushed the leak even harder and turned it into an opportunity. Which, if there’s anything to learn from such a polarizing music genre, it’s precisely that. Whether you like reggaeton, or whether you like Rock or EDM like Arcangel does; You can at least recognize that its

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top exponents turned disadvantages into opportunities, time and time again. Arcangel seems to be a very practical artist, he turned problems along the way into solutions. He has a mother with experience in the business, so he turned her into his manager. His label wouldn’t release his leaked album, so he did it himself and created his own label. He figured he had a voice for reggaeton, so he became a reggaeton star. That’s as straight forward as this business gets. However, Arcangel also knows about giving back. On January 5, 2015 he performed in La Calma Suite along with many artists like Farruko, Cosculluela, J Alvarez, Nicky Jam, Baby Rasta & Gringo, and many more. All proceeds from the event were donated to help children in need and the Arcangel foundation which helps to feed hungry children around the world. You can catch Arcangel “La Maravilla” on Saturday, February 21st at CocoCabana Nightclub. Tickets available now at Tickeri.com. █

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DIRECT FROM MÉXICO CITY

LIVE SHOW

STATE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA OF MÉXICO

TICKETS: 888-945-2468 or cfa.gmu.edu

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Fairfax, Virginia

SATURDAY, JANUARY 31 AT 8 P.M.

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INSPIRATIONAL

By: Darlene Campos

LeJuan James’s popularity on the internet continues to grow and grow as time passes. He currently has over 475,000 followers on his Instagram, 943,863 Facebook fans, 23,5000 Twitter followers, and over 30,000 YouTube subscribers along with over 740,000 YouTube views. LeJuan James started his comedy routine on a website called Vine which is a video sharing outlet. Before LeJuan

James reached a heavy social media following, he was a full time college student and full time manager in retail, just your everyday, average young person. He started making a few videos and posting them to his Vine account. He had no idea his skits were about to take off all over the internet. According to LeJuan James, he does not really plan out his skits – his skits come to him. He lives his life and then a skit idea will spark in his mind. Once this happens, he films the skit and posts it online. LeJuan James says it’s very important for him to make new content to please his wide audience.

Since starting out on Vine, LeJuan James has spread from the internet to television. He now appears on Telemundo every Sunday. He aims to one day appear in other television shows and in movies.

Social media and cellphones are the reasons LeJuan James gained his rise to fame. LeJuan James creates his comedic material with something most people have access to – a cellphone. Cellphones have transformed since their early days. Before, they were strictly for making a phone call, but now a cellphone can connect the user to the internet, all the time. Thanks to advanced technology, anyone with a smartphone can easily stumble upon a skit crafted by LeJuan James.

LeJuan James’s presence in the internet world only continues to increase. You can meet and laugh with Lejuan James yourself on January 23rd when he will be hosting one of the Passion Friday nights at Cameo (Formerly known as Café Asia) at 1720 I Street in Northwest DC. For more information about LeJuan James and to watch his latest skits, look him up on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ TeamLejuanJames. █

As for inspiration, LeJuan James cites his family as his main reason for who he is. In an interview with Inaxxs, LeJuan James told reporter Manuel Garcia, “Everything that has happened to me and has got me where I am now is thanks to my family. I have a traditional family that really loves each other. Without their unity, I would never even be where I am now.”

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ JANUARY 2015

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HOLIDAYS

By: Aminta Nieves-Candamo and Rosario Garcia ost great things tend to come together by chance. It was in the early 1960s that Argentinian composer, Ariel Ramirez, was inspired by a trip to Germany after World War II, where a chance encounter with a group of nuns prompted Ramirez to write a “spiritual piece”. This would later become known as “La Misa Criolla” and went on to sell millions of copies internationally. The Immaculate Conception Catholic Church in DC will be hosting a very special presentation of the “Misa Criolla: Christmas of the Americas: Voices of Hope” on December 21, 2014 as a benefit for the Cerniquem Institute for Burned Children. For those not familiar with the “Misa Criolla” it is a combination of Spanish text with indigenous instruments and rhythms turning the event into a traditional holiday celebration for years to come. This year’s event will include

music from all corners of the world including Andean folk music, Bolivian indigenous music, and performers from Peru and Chile. One of the key performers will be Ernesto Bravo, Chilean performer of Andean folk music. Expert on instruments like the Charango, Guitar, Quena, Zamponas, and percussion he is sure to delight with his unique style. Known by his collaboration on “Memorias de los Andes” the documentary of a “Journey expedition Travel”, Bravo hopes to bring traditional Andean folk music to the masses. Also performing in this edition of the Misa Criolla is tenor Pablo Henrich-Lobo from Bolivia who has become somewhat of a local celebrity having trained at the Catholic University of America, followed by 2 years of vocal training in Rome, Italy under tenor Gianni Bavaglio. Mr. HenrichLobo has also performed with The Washington Opera, The Opera Camerata of Washington, Baltimore Opera Company,

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/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

FOOD

/ JANUARY 2015

By: Ellen Flores

Chef José Andrés new concept China Chilcano is a contemporary Peruvian restaurant in the heart of the Penn Quarter in downtown DC. The name not only plays homage to Peru’s celebrated fish stew and national drink the Chilcano, but it also pays tribute to the culinary heritage this country has. The Chinese Chifa and Japanese Nikkei cuisines are honored in the name of the new flagship restaurant that promises to be one of DC’s hottest go-to spots this year. It’s not by accident that Chef Andrés chose to unite these cooking styles, as Peru’s large immigrant community from Japan and China are the organic union of immigrants that adapted their home style cooking techniques with the available South American ingredients. Having the second largest ethnic Japanese population in South America, the Nikkei cuisine transforms local Peruvian dishes using Japanese flavors and techniques, creating a personality and identity of its own. The Chifa, is a term used in Peru to refer to Chinese cooking in which Peruvian and Chinese ingredients are fused to Cantonese culinary tradition. Pulling inspiration from time-honored techniques and traditional dishes, China Chilcano honors the flavor, style and crossover of indigenous ingredients between these three cultures throughout the menu. Divided into sections that include Dim Sum, Soups, Ceviches, Chaufas and Sanguches, José Andrés takes a bold and creative approach to interpret the Criollo classics

like Papa a la Huancaína y Ocopa, which is an appetizer of yellow potatoes served with spicy cream sauces. ChinesePeruvian favorites like Siu Mai de Concha, pork shumai dumplings; and Japanese-Peruvian items like the spicy, refreshing Ceviche Nikkei with Erizos de Mar are showcased to both celebrate and reinvent contemporary Peruvian cooking. We can’t talk menu without mentioning desserts. China Chilcano features dessert offerings that are traditional, sweet, crunchy and icy. The Suspiro de Limeña, is an iconic sweet of custard and meringue, a favorite in Lima; Raspadillas, a classic street food of shaved ice and fresh fruit syrups; and Ponderaciones de Kiwicha (also known as Amaranth) with Algarrobina ice cream, chocolate and a crispy spiral fried cookie, put a sweet finish to the menu. Of course, we can’t talk Peru without talking Pisco. The drink menu of China Chilcano offers a plethora of native products and flavors of Peru by featuring a full bar with one of the largest collections of Pisco in the entire United States. As is customary in the José Andrés style, the cocktail menu is a force to be reckoned with by featuring ingredients and Peruvian spirits with global inspiration, the cocktails range from the traditional Pisco Sour and Chilcano to more contemporary and devilish delights such as the Cholotini Macchu Pisco, a prickly pear, passion fruit and lemon concoction. The food, the drinks and the ambiance are all part of the China Chilcano experience. Collaborating with renowned Spanish architect and designer Juli Capella, the 158 seat restaurant reflects the spirit of modern Peru. The massive mural, the Japanese dining table and the 300 gallon fish tank all celebrate the history and future of Peruvian cuisine as viewed through the delectable palate of Chef José Andrés. China Chilcano is open seven days a week, starting with dinner only Tuesday – Thursday (4:00 – 11:00 PM), Friday & Saturday (4:00 – 12:00 AM) and Sunday & Monday (4:00 – 10:00 PM). For more information or reservations, visit chinachilcano.com. █

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KESTA ASKS

/ JANUARY 2015

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INSPIRATIONAL

By: Manu Mayor

ists. “I prepared very hard to make it, I gave it my all,” Moisés remembers. The three finalists were quizzed on their World Cup knowledge, Moisés was like a human sports almanac, and he had all the answers. His knowledge earned him the spot. For the duration of the World Cup, Moisés lived and breathed the sport; he would watch the games at local hangouts and conduct interviews with the fans. His hard work paid off and his reporting earned him a visit to the popular TV show, “Acción Deportiva”. Moisés kept his eye on the prize and gathered experience working as a production assistant for Fox Sports, was a columnist for Fox Deportes, was a contributing writer at Latino Sports 360 magazine, and served as a radio host with Skid Row Studios. He also found time to volunteer working with adults with developmental disabilities in California, and also maintained his own blog and wrote content for a social media fitness page. Talk about busy!

KH: Mayweather vs. Pacquiao. Do you think it’s going to happen? Moisés: It may seem like it’s not, but when you really look at it, I do think it’s going to happen. It will happen after Pacquiao leaves Bob (Arum). He has one year left in his contract with his promoter, after that, I think they will make it happen before they retire. KH: Who is your pick for the World Cup? Moisés: I always pick Argentina, but they always lose! I’ve supported them since I was 5. I remember watching Maradona on TV in the 90 World Cup, watching the games, but they lost to Germany. With Messi around, their time is now.

KH: What projects would you like to take on in the future? Moisés: I want to keep becoming a better anchor. I want to work in both, Spanish and English. I want to go to a World Cup and cover the event.

KH: I guess we know the answer to this question then, Messi or Ronaldo? Moisés: They are both great, not just because of the goals, but because of the consistency in their play. The bad thing for Ronaldo is playing in the same era as Messi. Same as Platini in the 80’s. He was one of the best, but Maradona was around. KH: Any advice for someone looking to get into sports broadcasting or journalism? Moisés: It’s not easy. There are 40 to 50 guys waiting for one opening. I waited for years, did the magazine work...and I told myself “you can’t quit”. I had to move across the country to make this happen. My accomplishments wouldn’t be possible without the love and support of two important women, my grandmother and my mother.

KH: What’s your favorite sport to cover? Moisés: Soccer, but I like to keep it balanced.

KH: How do you like living in the D.C. area? Moisés: The people are nice; they greet

When asked what his favorite part about being a Sports Anchor is, Moises shared, “I get to do, what many people wish they could do. Be on the field. As close as possible to the action.”

me and tell me they like my segment. That makes all the preparation worthwhile. It’s a cool city...except the winter. After years of hard work, preparation, and with a resolve not to quit, this California native is quickly making a name for himself in our community and has turned his passion into a successful career. Not an easy feat, now if only he could just get used to the cold winters... Don’t forget to catch the latest in sports with Moisés Linares on Telenoticias Washington D.C, Monday through Friday at 6 and 11pm. Also, tune in on February 18 at 6 & 11pm for a special news series by Moises Linares. To find out more about Moisés, like him on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/pages/MoisesLinares/135327416634120

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/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

STYLE

/ JANUARY 2015

Ring in the New Year with

MARSALA 2015 By: Alicia Yim

Let’s all raise a glass to the beautifully rich, earthy hue: Marsala. Every year Pantone Color Institute declares a color of the year, and for 2015 this red-brown hue has been crowned the winner. This mature, subtly sexy shade is one that is appropriate for makeup, home decor, clothing, and accessories. See how many different ways you can smoothly transition Marsala into your stylish life this year. █

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1 3

15 19

9 8 10

1. Marcjacobs.com - Polished Medium Incognito $2450 | 2. Aldoshoes.com - Arcola bag $40 | 3. Marcjacobs.com - Polished Mini Trouble $1300 | 4. Dsw.com - Nine West Retta Boot $89.95 | 5. Dsw.com - Tommy Hilfiger Calipso rain boot $69.95 | 6.Urbanoutfitters.com - Hunter Original Short Gloss Rain Boot $138 7. Dsw.com - Dizzy Stretch Rain Boot $29.95 | 8. Converse.com - Chuck Taylor Fresh Colors $50 | 9. Macys.com - Blowfish Nice Ballet Flats $45 | 10. Us.topshop.com - Mischief Heeled Ankle Boot $160 | 11. Converse.com - Womens Varsity Jacket $65 | 12. Us.topshop.com - Petite Long Sleeve Skinny Ribbed Crop Top $20 13. Hm.com - Jacquard-weave Jumpsuit $59.95 l 14. Nordstrom.com - Topshop ‘Walter’ Hooded Cotton Parka with Faux Fur Trim$150 | 15. Nordstrom.com - BP Three Quarter Sleeve Scoop Back Tee $22 | 16. Fwrd.com - Carven Cropped Front Logo Cotton Sweatshirt in Wine $168 | 17. Hm.com - Short-sleeved Jumpsuit $59.95 18. Nordstrom.com - Free People Lace Trim Trapeze Slipdress $88 | 19. Forever21.com - Tailored Woven Blazer $24.80 | 20. Forever21.com - Pleated Chevron Matelassé Skirt $19.90 | 21. Maccosmetics.com - Eyeshadow in Limited edition Red Alert $16 | 22. Maccosmetics.com - Lipstick in Spice It Up! $16 23. Essie.com - Limited Addiction $8.50 | 24. Ulta.com - OPI Malaga Wine $9.50

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/ JANUARY 2015

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All photos taken by Daniel Martinez

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ JANUARY 2015

LO NUEVO

HEALTH

By: Jenny Osoria I believe that every day is a new day to take a step and make changes that will favor our lives and improve our health. Of course the start of a New Year allows us to make the famous “New Year Resolutions” and start the year off with a clean slate. The key to making your New Year’s resolutions stick is to convert them from a trend to a lifestyle transformation. During the first few days before and after the New Year everyone is very motivated. Nevertheless, they end up pushing themselves so hard to see quick results that they forget to appreciate the journey of the change that they have embarked on. In reality, the start is not as important as the finish. In my profession, I see many cases in which people start going to the gym everyday with no rest because they are eager to see speedy results. However they do not realize that generating bad habits and making poor choices was years in the making.

By: Daniel Martinez hen you think about Colombian music, I’m sure you think about Shakira, Juanes, and Carlos Vives. They’re all great musicians and we’ve had a blast listening to their music but it is now time you take a second look at the Colombian music scene. For almost a decade now, independent musicians have started a new genre of music where they have adopted regional and folk Colombian sounds and made contemporary music. It’s time we get to know them here. On January 7th at the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center for Performing Arts, Puerto Candelaria made their first stop on their Love and Debts tour. Puerto Candelaria a band from Medellin, Colombia, started almost 14 years ago, under the direction of Juancho Valencia, who plays the keyboard in the band and is known as the “Sargento Remolacha” Sargent Beet. The rest of the musicians are Eduardo González, who was presented as: ”La revelación del trópico, el mesias de la montaña, el bigote que canta” (the revelation of the tropic, the messiah of the mountain, the mustache that sings), he plays the bass and also does vocals, the soprano saxophone is played by José Tobón, Cristian Ríos plays the trombone. The band has two percussionists Carlos Didier Martinez and Juan Guillermo Aguilar. They originally started as a jazz group, however they added their own special touches along the way and created a genre that evolved to be known as “Yaz Colombiano”

incorporating regional, folk and popular sounds like “guavina” and “chucu chucu”, as a result they created something special: the “Cumbia Underground” Since their beginnings they’ve released four studio albums including four musical shows. Last year they released “Amor y Deudas” a DVD of a live show where they played their well-known hits, as well as, new tracks that featured collaborations with Catalina García from Monsieur Periné, Jacobo Vélez de El Callegüeso y la Mambanegra, Andrea Echeverri and also Esteman. Their show at the Millennium Stage in Washington was special. For their debut in DC, the band was introduced by Luis Carlos Villegas, the Colombian ambassador. One of the goals and purposes of Puerto Candelaria is to make people take a second look at Colombia through its music. They have incorporated the culture, humor, kindness that sets Colombians apart and use it in their music and performances in order to make their audience have a great time. Puerto Candelaria has played in more than 60 countries, it has been to Europe, South America and even China, and they confessed it has been very difficult to create a scene in North America. Still they hope with this current tour they will gain some exposure, and create more demand for Colombian independent artists. Check out this fun band for yourself visit them online: www.puertocandelaria.com.█

Focusing on the vision rather than just what the eye can see is a process that takes many different steps. As you try to concentrate on your New Year’s Resolutions remember that it is not about the many times you did not go through with them all the way, but rather the fact that you stayed on course. Instead of feeling unsuccessful every time you attempt to start, here are just a few suggestions that can help you finally finish your vision toward your health goals.

Tips To Stay Focused: • Change one of your sport drinks to a water bottle • Plan your meals and eat at least five small meals daily • Snack between meals • No fruits after 4:00PM • Calories In = Food • Calories Out = Exercise • Stay away from processed sugars & oils • Limit your salt intake • Make sure to rest • Eat your fiber • Eat nuts • Slowly remove your intake of Caffeine The next time you start to feel that you are not going to uphold your New Year’s Resolutions, remember that there are no quick solutions or answers to a situation that has taken years or a lifetime to develop. Now is the time to reflect on how to reframe your goals and aspirations to become fit and create a healthy new YOU! █

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LOCAL TALENT

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ECHOSTAGE LINEUP

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ JANUARY 2014

Echostage | Next page: Grupo Niche

@ The Palace, Jowell

& Randy @ Cococabana

Photo by: Miriam Jave

This page: Tiesto @

Photgrapher: William

Espinoza

By: Juan Leon

Friday, January 9: National Symphony Orchestra “NSO IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD. TICKETS PROVIDED FREE OF CHARGE.” (Doors open at 7:30PM, All Ages)

Friday, January 16: T.I.— It looks like Echostage decided to kick off the new year in a big, high-profile way: Atlanta rapper T.I. needs no introduction. You’ve heard his work. You know what Tip Harris brings to the table. (Doors open at 9PM, Ages 18+)

By: Kala Fryman

Cindy Zavala has been doing some amazing things in the DC music scene and is an up and coming artist to watch out for. Following in the footsteps of her father by working with Maracuyeah DC to promote and bring artists to perform in the DC metro area, Zavala has also expanded to music reporting and was even crowned the reina for Miss Sister City, which took her to the Carnival of San Miguel en El Salvador in 2008. 2014 was a big year for Zavala, who introduced her side project as a cumbia rapper with the clever stage name La SalvadoReina. From performing with Helado Negro, La Sonora Dinamita and Olmeca to opening as a DJ for Calle 13 in September, La SalvadoReina is taking DC by storm one cumbia rap at a time.

Zavala’s recent release of her first self-directed, produced and edited music video, Cumbia Capital, is a promising look of what is to come from La SalvadoReina. The video was shot in collaboration with Efrain Ramirez, while Alberto Otero offered the beats. Like any good cumbia, the beat of Cumbia Capital immediately beckons listeners to dance, while Zavala’s lyrics and delivery introduce you to the La SalvadoReina and her community. Between shots of the capitol building and other iconic DC landmarks, La SalvadoReina also shows us Salvadoran landmarks and events such as the Banda El Pulgarcito performing in the Fiesta DC parade, as well as Gloria’s Pupuseria in Columbia Heights. Regarding the process behind the video and song, Zavala shared, “Locals in this area know that DC is not all about what happens on Capitol Hill. DC is made up of many communities and neighborhoods. DC has a Latino population that consists of a Salvadoran majority and I want people all over the United States to know that. We are here, we exist and our voices should be heard too.”

Cumbia has always been near and dear to Zavala’s heart, but her love for hip hop developed later as she lived in DC for college and became more exposed to urban sounds. Rapping and cumbia rapping was always in her mind but it took her some time to get the courage to go for it and do it. Zavala remarked, “Being a cumbia rapper just seemed too crazy to me and my family, but after the first time I rapped, I felt like a huge weight was lifted off of my shoulders.” La SalvadoReina is working on a lot of stuff for 2015 and plans to write more and put more songs together. When asked about her plans for the year Zavala said it will be all about getting people aware about what she’s doing and finishing her project of an EP. She also has some collaborations in the works with Salvadoran rapper FenomeDon and the Salvadoran hip hop collective out of New York, Los Reyes del Bajo Mundo. Zavala’s creativity, passion and drive shine through above all and I can’t wait to see more from her! You can listen to La SalvadoReina online: https://soundcloud.com/cindyzavala/cumbia-master or via Social Networks on Facebook and Twitter. █

Saturday, January 17: Nervo — w/Ansolo, Stefan Reid.

Mim and Liv Nervo are two sisters who love to make electronic dance music. And they’re pretty good at it. Known for dance hits like “Hold On” and “You’re Gonna Love Again,” the Nervo sisters combine high energy sets with infectious beats. 20-year-old Ansolo provides support. (Doors open at 9PM, 18+)

Saturday, January 24: Armin Van Buuren. Yes, THE

Armin Van Buuren. The Dutch trance legend with a successful career spanning nearly 20 years comes to Echostage again. It’s always a treat. (Doors open at 9PM, 18+)

Saturday, January 31: Oliver Heldens — w/Firebeatz,

Helena. Get excited. Oliver Heldens is only 19-years-old but he’s already topped the UK charts with “Overdrive.” Heldens talent has caught the eye of no less than Tiesto, so this upstart DJ comes well-vetted. Dutch DJs Firebeatz provide support. (Doors open at 9PM, 18+) █

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

KESTA NEW

/ JANUARY 2015

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ALBUM REVIEWS

By: Rosario Garcia

London inspired Ecuadorian rockers who call themselves Prime Ministers are living in the moment and belting their rock anthems in electrifying performances around the world to include Colombia’s Rock Al Parque, SXSW, and most recently a U.S. National tour opening up for Chilean rockers, La Ley. Promoting their latest album titled, Now, we chatted with Ernesto (lead vocals, guitar), Pedro (bass and vocals), Chimo (drums) and Shaggy (guitars and vocals) who listed amongst their influences bands like The Beatles, the Rolling Stones, and Oasis in addition to classic rock & roll bands from all over including Jimi Hendrix, Gustavo Cerati, and Queens of the Stone Age. Listening to Now is definitely a homage to these artists, however, tracks like the single “Take It Back” have the right amount of angst and catchy guitar riffs paired with lively lyrics that make it an instant head-banging song. Ernesto says, “It comes from the irresponsibility we have with words. When you say something, you can obviously say you’re sorry but it’s already out there in the universe. The drama and negativity lingers,” he concludes. The music itself lingers with you in its flawlessness, while the lyrics add a broodiness that makes for an easy connection. Some of the stand out songs are “Out of my Mind”, “Now”, and the rebellious “Revolution”. Singing in English, Prime Ministers are rebels and are making classic rock and roll their own. To quote their site, “Prime Ministers are here to play Rock & Roll as it should be: With Balls!” For more information and to purchase the album visit: www.primeministersband.com. █

By: Rosario Garcia

Sometimes a debut album sounds like an immediate classic, one that will stay in heavy rotation on your computer, phone, or in your car (if you are still the CD type). This is the case for Cuban singer songwriter, Kat Dahlia who debuts her first full-length release My Garden on January 13, 2015. The Miami bred singer took her time to write and produce the 11 songs in My Garden and will ensnare you with the thorny beautiful richness of her voice. The lyrics will get you next as she sings about love lost and gained. In “Saturday Sunday”, “I think I’m In Love” and “Lava” her voice and lyrics are sweet and reminiscent of Adele or Amy Winehouse, while the first track “My Garden” sounds raspy and lays down some of the richest R&B vocals and backgrounds you have ever heard. It’s no surprise that Dahlia has been compared to artists like Erykah Badu and Lauryn Hill. In “Tumbao” Dahlia remakes the classic Celia Cruz track into an R&B song where she states “la blanca tiene tumbao” and turns on her salsera Spanish voice with gritty lyrics identifying herself as Latina but stating that this alone doesn’t require her to “change her style”. Her message is clear, “My album is a plethora of sounds, not unlike a garden of flowers,” Kat says. “You have daisies, sunflowers, willows, thorns ---all evoking different emotions, expressions and meanings. I’m inviting everyone into my garden, my mind, my music.” To preorder or purchase My Garden visit: www.katdahlia.com. █

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/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

/ JANUARY 2015

KE PASÓ

LOVE

By: Rosario Garcia

This year Mexican rock band Molotov really helped us kick off the end of the year right with a special Kesta Roxmas midnight show on Saturday, December 13th at the Howard Theatre. I knew it wasn’t your typical concert when the line snaked around the block a good two hours before the doors for the show opened at 11pm. Latino time was in true effect as the doors opened slightly after 11pm and chilly fans donning Santa hats and rock T-shirts took selfies and waited patiently in line for their turn to enter the Howard Theatre. After the first floor was at capacity, the Howard Theatre opened the upstairs to allow excited fans the opportunity to let loose throughout the theatre. This being a late show, there was no opener so shortly after midnight Los Molotov came out in full fashion blasting hit after hit like “Gimme the Power”, “Puto”, “Amateur”, “Frijolero”, “Dance, Dense, and Denso”, “Voto Latino” and many more. One of the memorable songs was “Rastamandita” where (falling with tradition) Molotov invited girls to join them on stage dancing and moshing in complete bliss. Another highlight was the moshing Kesta Roxmas Santa Claus who stage dived, moshed, and was generally merry to his heart’s content as fans took pictures and joined in on the fun. No Tequila bottle was safe as fans drank, sang, and moshed to old and new hits including a new favorite, Lagunas Metales from Molotov’s latest album Agua Maldita. Molotov demonstrated they are a band not to be missed, ever! █

By: Carol Zambrana

A rather energetic and upbeat crowd greeted William Omar last December at Echostage. It was the best way to say goodbye and close 2014, a reggaeton concert with a bang! Don Omar made the crowd dance and sing throughout the entire concert! It was an unbelievable experience with over 2,500 people singing, dancing and just having a blast. Don Omar brought the old-school reggaeton back to life; singing and dancing to “Pobre Diabla”, “Dale Don Dale”, “Dile” and many others. Based on the crowd’s reaction William Omar’s performance was long overdue in the DC Area. It was a well-known fact that the crowd did not want the concert to end. Nevertheless, all good things must come to an end, and Don Omar ended the concert with “Hasta que salga el sol” (until the sun comes up). I would say probably symbolizing that the party would still go on inside of us no matter what. The crowd went wild as he sang lyrics from the song, “Come on let’s party until the sun comes up. Dance until you break your hips, until the sun comes up”. Next time Don Omar is in town, do yourself a favor and make plans to go to the show, you are guaranteed to start or end your year bailando! For pictures and other awesomeness from this event visit our photo gallery here: www.kestadc.com/gallery. █

s we start the New Year, many of us feel motivated and inspired to stick to our resolutions, while some of us have already given up on them two weeks into the new year. Often these resolutions are about personal growth or improvement, eating better, getting healthier, working out, saving money or accomplishing a tangible material goal. Inspired by abundantmama.com and the questions she shared for reflection in the new year, I’d like to propose an exercise for couples to try which has the potential to open up meaningful emotional dialogue and connection. Try sitting together for at least 30 minutes (free of technology or other distractions) and asking each other these 5 reflective questions for 2015:

1. What emotion are you yearning to experience this year? 2. What beautiful decision would you like to be able to celebrate by year’s end? 3. Who would you like to be closer to this year? 4. How can you show up more for your life each day? 5. What would make your heart sing this year? Take turns asking each other these questions and really listening to the answers. You may be surprised by what you learn about your partner (I know I was!). We often spend so much of our time being busy, tired, or stressed, that it doesn’t leave a lot of time to just be present with our loved ones, or to simply have conversations that are focused entirely on each other’s emotions, hopes and dreams. This exercise is a good way to take pause and share more about your inner world with your partner, and it could lead to some joint resolutions about changes you both want to make, or things you want to start doing differently to support each other, or to build the kind of life you both want, on the emotional level. And if you are not in a relationship right now, this is still a great exercise to try on your own as a way to listen inward and set an intention for what really matters to you as you start this new year. █

Jazmin Moral www.jazminmoral.com is a licensed clinical social worker practicing in Rockville. This column is meant for entertainment only and should not be considered a substitute for professional counseling. If you have a love, dating, or relationship question, send it to us via our confidential online form at www.kestadc.com/love.

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KE? KESTA HOROSCOPE Aries: Enjambre says, “Mientras unos caen otros se levantan. Mientras unos se atraen otros se espantan.” – Somos Ajenos, Enjambre

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GIVEAWAYS: Libra: Tito Nieves says “Vivo en un mundo de mentiras fabricando fantasías para no llorar ni morir por tu recuerdo.” – Fabricando Fantasias, Tito Nieves

Taurus: Trebol Clan says “Tu eres el motivo de mi tentación. Te veo bailando y ya puedo imaginar como esta noche yo la quiero terminar.” –Bailando Provocas, Trebol Clan

Scorpio: Nicky Jam says “Lo que me

Gemini: Andy Andy says “Si revelaras tus ilusiones, yo elevaría mis intenciones y te daría mi tierra mi cielo por verte feliz.”

Sagittarius: : Los Master Plus says “Con su sonrisa yo me quede de a seis, pero ella solo quiere fotos conmigo pa’ subirlas al Face.” –

RAUL ROMERO

Capricorn: Alexis & Fido says “Tu te

@ the howard theatre

– Aquí Conmigo, Andy Andy

Cancer: Frank Reyes says “Se acabo

aquello que sentía, esta es mi despedida. Buena suerte y adiós... ”

– Ya No Te Creo Nada, Frank Reyes

Leo: Arcangel says “Y ahora que no te

tengo pienso en todo el tiempo perdido que perdi contigo.“ – Por Amar a Ciegas, Arcangel

Virgo: Ricardo Arjona says “Desnuda que no habrá diseño que te quede mejor que el de tu pìel ajustada a tu figura.” – Desnuda, Ricardo Arjona

pidas te lo voy a dar, y si te pido no digas que no. Vamo’ olvidarnos del teléfono, a donde llego tú dímelo.”

- Travesuras, Nicky Jam

Mamarazzi, Los Master Plus

me paras de frente y me tiemblas todo el piso creo que he sido victima de uno de tus hechizos.” -Imaginate, Alexis & Fido

Aquarius: Raul Romero says “Solo

solo solo solo, solito estoy. Hoy quiero deidicarle el pensamiento a todos los que sufren por amor.” – Solito, Raul Romero

Pisces: Juan Gabriel says “Cuando quieras tu divertirte más y bailar sin fin, yo sé de un lugar que te llevaré y disfrutarás de una noche que nunca olvidarás” -– Vamos al Noa Noa, Juan Gabriel

win tickets to

fri, MARCH 20TH

Download and install a free QR code reader for your phone 1. Open the QR code reader application 2. Take picture / scan the QR code with your mobile device 3. The code willl take you to the Win Tickets Page for a chance to win 4. THE FIRST PEOPLE TO ANSWER THE QUESTION CORRECTLY ON THE WIN TICKETS PAGE WINS TICKETS TO CONCERT. Good Luck!

/ KESTA HAPPENING MAGAZINE

DIA DE LOS MUERTOS

By: Rosario Garcia

/ JANUARY 2015

WWW.KESTADC.COM

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