Landó (music)

Landó is an Afro-Peruvian form of music in the musica criolla genre. Its unique sound had been likened to the American blues genre.

Influences

Landó developed from a dance in Angola called londu that came with slaves when they arrived in Brazil. Even today, in Brazil, the Angolan influenced londo is played. Hence, the Landó is a mix of both Spanish and African rhythms. It features a slower tempo and call and response vocalization. The signature instrument of the Landó is the cajon, a box-like drum. This instrument was improvised by West Africans, who had to give up their instruments when arriving in South America.

Today

The Landó is still a very popular musical style in Peru. Peruvian musician Eva Ayllon is one of its most popular performers along, with the band Perú Negro. A good example of Landó fusion is found in Pancho Pepe Jazz band's Myspace page; the song is called Lando Blues.