Image Source: http://www.seattlepi.com/local/article/Bumbershoot-2013-initial-lineup-announced-4486728.php

I also had the privilege of seeing Aurelio in concert at the Rotunda. Aurelio, named for frontman, rhythm guitarist, and lead vocalist Aurelio Martinez, is a three man ensemble hailing from Honduras that specializes in the music of the African diaspora in Honduras. When the band first took the stage, I immediately noticed that one band member was unlike the others. Martinez himself and his percussionist were dark skinned, probably middle aged or older, wearing loose, baggy garments and sporting long dreadlocks. The lead guitarist, on the other hand, was light skinned and well groomed, wearing fitted pants, a button up shirt, and a neatly trimmed short haircut. However, as different as he looked from Martinez, the connection that they shared through their music was remarkable. They would often trade off solos during a piece, making eye contact as if communicating through their music. The drummer, not to be left out, often entered a sort of trance like state, during which his eyes would close, his head would tilt back, and his mouth would hang open, barely mouthing the lyrics. The band was a perfect example of an ensemble that is truly connected to its music, both emotionally and, in the case of the drummer, physically. I was lucky enough to have been able to witness and share in that connection.

-Matt Hanessian, SAS ‘15

Aurelio  Martinez performing in 2010