Guías
In timba, a guía (literally “guide”) is the lead vocal call improvised or varied by the singer during the montuno / coro section of the song.
- Definition: Lead vocal calls improvised or varied by the singer.
- Context: Performed during the montuno / coro section.
- Structure:
- Coro = chorus, sung by backing vocalists in harmony.
- Guía = short, improvised vocal lines by the lead singer.
- Function:
- Interact with the coro (call-and-response).
- Drive intensity and energy.
- Engage with bloques and rhythm section.
- Add storytelling, humor, or playful “battles” with the coro.
- Coro = the Choir, sings a repeating phrase.
- Pregón = the lead singer sings varying or improvised lines
Lees meer >In timba, a guía (literally “guide”) is the lead vocal call improvised or varied by the singer during the montuno / coro section of the song.
Lees meer >This section is characterized by a more open and interactive part of the song, where there is a dialogue between the vocals and the instrumentalists, leading to a more improvised feel. The montuno is typically built on repetitive piano and bass patterns and may include call-and-response singing.
Lees meer >Rhythmic breaks or unison hits played by the whole band, often interrupting the flow to create surprise and tension. These are choreographed and add drama, excitement, and syncopation.
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Interruptive role: The bloque is a sudden, tightly coordinated rhythmic break. It disrupts the ongoing groove (tumbao, coro, or guías).
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Cue for change: Right after the bloque, the band often launches into a new “gear” (a new rhythmic feel, coro, or piano tumbao). In this sense, the bloque
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