Pedrito Vargas y su Grupo Ashé

Pedrito Vargas y su Grupo Ashé brings the true sabor of timba to pacific northwest audiences. Formed in 2008, the group is made up of some of Seattle’s most prominent latin and jazz musicians. Grupo Ashé is unlike any other latin band currently touring in the Pacific Northwest. The group’s specialty is timba, a contemporary cuban music style that combines the elements of traditional cuban music, salsa, jazz, rock and hip hop. The group’s unique mix of cuban rhythms, salsa beats and funk sensibility creates an infectious high energy atmosphere that is sure to lift everyone off their seats to move to the music.

Pedrito Vargas formed Grupo Ashé with the desire to share recuerdos de su habana with Seattle and the pacific northwest. Pedrito has toured with timba legends Los Van Van and Buena Vista Social Club veteran Barbarito Torres. Drawing on his vast cuban music experience, ranging from traditional charanga to modern conceptual rhythm and blues, Pedrito y su grupo have created a new sound and live music experience for latin music fans here in Seattle and beyond.

Pedro Vargas - Born in Havana and inspired by the great Cuban percussionists Changuito and Tatagüines, Pedro began playing conga when he was just eight years old. In 1997, he joined the Piquete Cubano and started touring with Barbarito Torres of “Buena Vista Social Club" fame. Pedro recorded two albums with Barbarito, including “Havana Café” and the Grammy nominated self-titled “Barbarito Torres.” Pedro has toured worldwide with Barbarito Torres and timba legends, Los Van Van, performing in North and South America, Europe and Asia.