Allegria Band performing Gypsy Jazz & Gypsy Rhumba

Allegria was formed 20 years ago in Newport, following a meeting of musician friends at a party where it soon became evident that there was a common interest in musical genres such as Jazz Manouche with Django Reinhardt being it’s main exponent and latin and gypsy rhumba popularised mostly by the Gypsy Kings.

Early in 2000, a three-piece group started playing a few ‘low key’ gigs at a café in Cardiff.

Allegrias repertoire quickly attracted interest in their rhythmic and dynamic style of music, appealing to listeners and dancers alike.

They eventually became a four-piece group by adding drums/percussion and progressing to playing larger jazz clubs, festivals and major UK venues.

The current line-up consists of:

Nic Pucacco – acoustic guitar, vocals: Nic started out as a drummer laying the foundation of his powerful swing and flamenco-driven guitar style.

Hywel Maggs – acoustic & electric guitar: Hywel has experience in various guitar styles, playing live gigs and studio sessions as well as composing music for TV.

Julian Smith – bass guitar: Julian, besides playing bass, is also an experienced guitarist, drummer and producer with several albums to his credit.

Noel Watson – drums/percussion: Noel’s drum and percussion talents cover many styles  – mainly latin, but also jazz, pop etc. As well as playing live gigs, TV and theatre work, he is also a sought after drum tutor.

 

 

 

 

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