Judy Cantor-Navas for BILLBOARD – On May 18, jazz pianist Harold López-Nussa will perform with his percussionist father Ruy, pianist uncle Ernan, and his brother Ruy Adrian, who plays the drums, at Washington, D.C.’s Kennedy Center. One of the most esteemed contemporary musical families from Cuba, where music runs like blood through the veins, the López-Nussas’ rare appearance together on the stage comes as part of Artes de Cuba, a two-week festival celebrating Cuban culture happening May 8-20.
“I want to grow closer to the American people,” says Harold, who calls his new album, Un Día Cualquiera, “a direct response to the current administration” in the United States. “This has always been an important desire for Cubans, especially musicians. It’s impossible for us to be separate because we have so much in common, so much to share.”
The 34-year-old musician and composer is known for energizing the Havana scene, bridging generations and genres with his frequent collaborations, as well as for his exceptional playing and innovation. Un Día Cualquiera is set for release on Mack Avenue in June; the first single takes Rafael Hernandez’s classic “El Cumbanchero” on a new on a new journey; it’s out now.