Event

Alma Y Azucar

Ticket sales have closed, but there is still a bit of room, so please call (206) 365-4447 for reservations.

Alma y Azúcar brings you an exquisite and passionate selection of Latin styles and flavors. From the bouncy feel of 'Perfidia' and 'Quizas' to the passionate tango version of 'Besame Mucho', the sultry bossa nova 'Waters of March' and the salsa sound of 'Bemba Colorá' or 'Oye Como Va', these tunes have captured hearts and entertained internationally for decades.

One of the most striking things about Alma Villegas is her ability to honor the rich traditions of the various Latin genres that she performs, without being singularly defined by them. With her band Alma y Azucar, Alma masterfully integrates beloved Latin rhythmic styles including Cha Cha, Bossa Nova, Tango, Son, Rumba, Salsa, Samba and more with more contemporary influences, resulting in what she calls Latin music for everyone.

Born and raised in Tijuana, Mexico, Alma grew up with a range of musical influences that included 70s disco, American show tunes, pop, Mariachi and traditional Boleros, which her mother, also a vocalist, would sometimes sing. Alma has been singing professionally since 2001, when she joined the popular Seattle salsa band Cambalache. Soon thereafter, she was hired as one of three lead vocalists with the 12-piece Cuban ensemble Yerba Buena. While working with Yerba Buena, Alma began venturing out with her own groups, playing in wine bars, nightspots and other venues. Stepping up as a bandleader allowed Alma the opportunity to explore a broader palette of expression, while opening her up to a bigger and more diverse audience. Thus, Alma y Azucar was born. With Alma at the front, the band also features esteemed Seattle musicians Fred Hoadley (piano, tres, backup vocals), Steve Okimoto (bass), Ricardo Guity (percussion, backup vocals), Lance Lu on Shekere and Steve Mostovoy (trumpet, backup vocals).