MONECO has quickly burst on to the New York Neo-Cumbia scene with their unique blend of Chicha, Cumbia, and Rock. Their aggressive sound and entertaining stage presence has audiences coming back for more. Featuring an eclectic repertoire that includes Chicha classics, converted Rock and Pop hits, and original material, MONECO's infectious rhythms are always turning any show into an unforgettable event.

The band's members come from distinct backgrounds and professional environments. Eric Kurimski has dedicated his artistic output to the music of Peru and this ensemble showcases his blazing guitar. He splits his time between playing with MONECO and the first lady of Peruvian music - Eva Ayllon. His guitar highlights MONECO’s psychedelic cumbia sound and his vocals help shape the distinct sound of the band. Yayo Serka is an established drummer and percussionist and is active as a composer and arranger in MONECO. Often touring with Lila Downs, Claudia Acuña, and other world music and jazz luminaries, Yayo also produces local artists, including Los Chamanes, and is the driving force behind MONECO’s expressive and dynamic arrangments.

Vocals are led by multi-instrumentalist Jorge Olmedo. Jorge plays charango, zampoña, quena, guitar, and multiple percussion instruments. His years of playing in his native Guayaquil, Ecuador and in New York, has served as a foundation for an extensive knowledge of Andean music and other South American genres and styles. Rounding out the band is bassist Dan Martinez from the beautiful island of Puerto Rico.  

 

All together MONECO is a band with a driving force and a new voice in the New York City music scene.  They mix the edgy sound of one of the most musically diverse cities in the world with the traditional psychedelic cumbia sound of South America.  When you hear it you will have no doubt as to why MONECO is referred to as “New York Cumbiadelic.”