Last night was invited to play at a friend's Palo. His Padrino carries a lineage from Cuba and is super nice. He was smiling and welcoming. He had seen our group in a video that Dave showed him a few years back and was impressed enough that he welcomed us to play the Palo how we play it. He played bell and sang a lead. There were four guys that could hold a good coro to back him up, and Mike played most the lead while I played mostly high drum, and André played mostly mid drum. Mike broke two sticks playing lead, and definitely put some fire into it! Later, I tried my hand at lead and didn't crash the Palo, but I was luke warm at best. We finished off with a rumba that felt pretty good! This was an interesting scenario where I thought we were just going to be part of the coro and extras in the crowd. I thought they'd have their usual heavy hitters from Orlando, so expected to be amazed by the real deal players. But no! You're up! and let's hear what you've got!
A bunch of folks said thanks,, but best of all was the Padrino's sincere gratitude... Glad I went! And now I'm motivated to learn some better Palo leads.. If anyone has suggestions, bring 'em on!