congaplace.com

Hey People,

Sometime in the next few years the Cuban embargo will be lifted. I know it is political and some will and some will not welcome this event--yet it will happen. At the time trade will resume, as it is already with other countries.

What are the various brands of Congas (I know they refer to different names) manufactured in Cuba, played by Cuban musicians and exported to other countries? Any reviews and any comments? They may not be the artisan congas made by various people here in the US, but they do exist. I hear nothing about them.

thx, marcus

Don't know what they're making there now, i know the last major manufacturer in Habana was sonoc, there's also guanex, nice looking tubs.

http://www.rhythmtraders.com/CUBAgaller ... onocd1.htm

Here's a pic of the factory.
PC

Hey PC,

Thanks for the info. There seems to be very little information available on congas manufactured in Cuba. I was hopeing that more people would come forward.

thx, marcus

A close friend of mine just returned from a month of recording with his band in Havana, he tells me of an artisan in Havana Vieja who makes bata, congas, cajones, tres, bass, bongo, cencerros etc... All hand made to order. There are many 'el cheapo' style congas, but there are also several high end congas on their market.

I can give you more info once I return, I leave for Cuba in 18 days... Not like Im counting down or anything though... I will be there for minimum 2 months, will let you know what I find/bring back.

Abakua,

You are gentleman and a scholar. 2 months that is a trip of a lifetime for me. I figured there would be some common market congas, but you know they just might be better than the plywood congas in the US market.

Havana a great study.

....marcus