Chebere

There are two sides to Argentinean band, Chebere; one tied to the tropical music tradition, one embracing the modern world. While they initially sported the traditional lineup of violin, accordion, piano, and bass, Chebere now features synthesizer, electric piano, organ, drums, two trumpets, guitar, and saxophone. Formed as a sextet featuring violinist Hugo “Huesito” Terragni, pianist/vocalist Angel “Black” Videla, accordionist Alberto Pizzichini, and vocalist Daniel “Sebastian” Reyna, Chebere played their debut concert in the Argentinean city of Kioja, on June 19, 1974. The following year, they toured as accompanists for girl group Chichi. Although Reyna was replaced by vocalist Julio Manzur, Chebere was encouraged by their success with Chichi. Setting off on their own path, they released their debut album, This Is Chichi, in 1976. A number of vocalists have performed with Chebere. Manzur was replaced, in 1978, by Leo Fraga, who retired after a few months and was replaced by Miguel “Pelusa” Calderon. When Calderon left in 1983, Manzur returned briefly before being replaced by Juan Domingo “Fernando” Gatica. In 1987, the group added two additional singers: Alexander Caberio, who remained with the band for eight months, and Jorge “Toro” Quevado, who stayed until 1993. Chebere reached back to an earlier sound, in December 1996, when Videla and Pelusa returned. In June 1997, the group added a third vocalist, Gustavo Alvarez. Chebere’s 1993 album, Chebere in Hollywood, recorded in a Los Angeles studio, received an ACE Prize. ~ Craig Harris