What the Press said about Vocal Baobab's antipodean debut

"Explosion of Cuban Sound"

"The sounds of Cuba raised the red and yellow roof of the Dans Paleis..The debut performance of Vocal Baobab at the 2002 Festival was a hit with the audience from the moment the seven-piece group burst from the back of the venue in full voice…this group showed why it's considered one of Havana's most popular…powerful voices and percussion…an explosion of sounds, and the energy of their delivery was compelling. It was hard to take your eyes off them - their natural groove made for a visual spectacle."

Ellen Davies, The Evening Post, Wellington, March 15 2002

"Out of Africa, but without Ry Cooder"

Cuban group Vocal Baobab got the evening off to a lively start last night with a surprise entrance through the back of the venue, the seven performers dressed in traditional garb and all sporting long braided hair.
The stage immediately began to exude waves of intense polyrhythmic activity, generated by a variety of African drums, gourds, cowbells and shakers. Over the top of this came vibrant melodies and strong vocal harmonies. There was a hive of activity with constant interaction between musicians and singers, and spontaneous dancing. Their stage presence was excellent, with their boyish front man quickly developing a good rapport with the audience. This enabled a good response to invitations to participate in songs with clapping and singing, and for two women in the front row, even dancing….To create further variety, the last songs…demonstrated the dance abilities of the troupe…the interesting fusion flavours obviously had great appeal, with most of the audience standing or dancing for this part of the act and the warmth of Cuban culture as displayed by Vocal Baobab was clearly appreciated."

Jonathan Ryan, The Dominion, Wellington, March 14 2002