Herencia de Timbiquí

Herencia de Timbiquí formed in the early 2000s in the Pacific Colombian town they're named after. Begner Vásquez started the group, drawing from the traditional chirimía music of the region, which mixes African drum rhythms with Andean flute melodies. They've put out albums like their self-titled debut in 2006, followed by "Nuestro Legado" in 2008, "Identidad" in 2011, "Sabrás" in 2015, and "Alumbra" in 2018.

Their sound brings those traditional elements into more contemporary settings, which has drawn some criticism from purists who feel it waters down chirimía's authenticity. The band has also dealt with financial and logistical hurdles in getting their music heard beyond their local area.

Songs like "Sabrás," "Nochecita," and "Amanece" show their approach, lyrics that touch on longing and daily life, set against those layered Pacific rhythms. The lineup includes Vásquez on vocals and flute, Carlos Hurtado on vocals and drums, Jonatan Martínez on vocals and bass, Jaime Hurtado on vocals and marimba, and Edwin Guzmán on vocals and percussion.

They haven't aimed for broad commercial reach so much as a steady documentation of where they're from. The music feels specific to Timbiquí, even as it finds listeners elsewhere.