Fridays Live: Monsieur Periné

Latin Grammy-winning Colombian ensemble Monsieur Periné brings their vibrant "suin a la colombiana" (Colombian-style swing) to SFJAZZ, weaving together cumbia, bolero, jazz, and gypsy swing into something entirely fresh yet deeply familiar. Led by the charismatic vocalist Catalina García, the group has been charming audiences worldwide with their playful fusion that can seamlessly shift from neo-bossa nova to 1930s Parisian cabaret to Andean folk — all within a single song.

This is music designed to make you move. Reviews consistently describe their live shows as infectious dance parties where the audience becomes part of the performance. García's magnetic stage presence and the band's choreographed moments — including synchronized kicks by the brass section while hitting impossible notes — create an atmosphere of "serious fun." The ensemble's horn players, particularly on saxophone and trombone, steal scenes with their exceptional musicianship and theatrical flair, while García's warm energy bridges any language barriers.

Expect to hear selections spanning their catalog, from the bolero "Me Vas a Hacer Falta" that unexpectedly transforms into a jazz guitar solo and then a mambo, to "Mi Libertad," which García often introduces with reflections on empowerment and Latin American strength. Their multilingual performances move effortlessly between Spanish, French, English, and Portuguese, creating what one reviewer called "a musical journey around the globe."

Monsieur Periné's artistry lies in their ability to blur genre lines while maintaining a light touch and sense of humor. They're equally at home channeling a New Orleans jazz club, a French cabaret, or the streets of Bogotá — often in the same song. This four-show SFJAZZ residency promises an intimate setting for experiencing their "tropical charm" up close, where the band's natural ability to create immediate connections with audiences can fully bloom.