July 19, 2025 — Islander News.com (Key Biscayne, Florida)
Everyone wants some cortadito–the band, that is. Miami’s very own Cuban folk group is releasing another single off their upcoming project, “Guajira En La Madrugada.”
The single was written by bassist Alberto Pantaleon’s father, Alberto Pantaleon Hernandez. It is the second written by the late Cuban composer, and features guest vocals by Havana’s ultra-talented Aymée Nuviola.
“Guajira” was recorded by Guillermo Rodriguez Bravo, and band co-founder and tresero Jose Elias, and mixed by Carlos “El Loco” Bedoya (Beyoncé), Enrique Iglesias).
“Aymeé is a great friend and has collaborated with the band for a few years. We always revel in the chance to work with her,” says Elias. “I’m delighted that she lent her superb vocals to this song, and we look forward to sharing the video with our fans. Our thanks to the wonderful team at Hoy Como Ayer for hosting the video shoot.”
It is described as “sublimely tropical,” threaded together by Nuviola’s smooth vocals and Roniel Vega’s steely trumpet. Pantaleon and percussionist Pacha Portuondo set the stage with their lively rhythmic bed over Elias’ unique tres, and Franklin Reytor’s arrangement blends perfectly under the “guajira, te quiero cantar mi tonada” chorus.
“Recording this song has been one of those experiences that one treasures profoundly,” says Nuviola. “Not just because of the level of artistry, the respect with which they play each note, and the authenticity they bring to their traditional Cuban music. For me, it was a privilege to put my little bit into a project that doesn’t just honor our past but gives life to our musical inheritance for the new generation.”
The group’s first two album singles “A Yemayá” (with Nestor Torres) and “Aqui Te Traigo Me Son” have been revered by critics and fans. Cortadiro was recently featured on NPR’s Alt Latino podcast, and is now getting ready for a regional east coast tour of various states, including New York, North Carolina, West Virginia, Florida, and more to be announced.
For more information about the band and the recording, visit linktr.ee/CortaditoSon.
