Does the number 420 take you somewhere?
For us it takes us to the world of reggae and smoke weed, however today we will talk about music, a wonderful Venezuelan band that fills us with Reggae in this opportunity and tell us how they have been working. Enjoy!
Who are the members of 420 Ensamble and what is their goal of artistic expression?
Mc Grandpa – Lead guitar and vocalist
Jhonny Boon – Keyboard
Larry Martinez – Bass
Etheart Dupiton – Drums
Mafer Vera – Lead vocalist
Andreina Verastegui – Second backing vocalist
Domingo Hernandez – Saxophone
Our goal is to use music as a bridge that connects with the people who listen to us, so that they feel identified. Addressing different themes, experiences or points of view, with which we can contribute our grain of sand for a better world, where equality and respect for others is a reality rather than a vision.
When and how 420 Ensamble was born?
It was born in the middle of the pandemic year 2020, when Mc Grandpa and Dupiton met to put together a project that was profitable and marketable to get new spaces where they could play. That’s how they started to form the lineup to mount a tribute to Bob Marley, in which first Jhonny and Larry joined.
Thanks to the tribute project, new doors began to open and little by little we have made ourselves known and have been able to achieve great things.
After a year, the two backing vocalists joined us, with whom we were able to achieve a new sound, enhanced by the vocal roots that exist within the group.
What projects is 420 Ensamble preparing for the near future?
We are in the middle of a change of image, since this year we are preparing the band’s first EP and one of the changes will be the name of the group.
We also have in our plans to repeat the Symphonic Tribute to Bob Marley, an event we produced in February 2022 at the Teatrex hall.
What drives you to continue making music?
What drives us to continue making music is that if there is something we all have in common within the group, it is the love and desire to make good music, with content, enjoyable for all audiences and to be able to make a living from what we love.
What instruments are found within the musical composition of 420 Ensamble?
Mc Grandpa – Lead guitar and vocalist
Jhonny Boon – Keyboard
Larry Martinez – Bass
Etheart Dupiton – Drums
Mafer Vera – Lead vocalist
Andreina Verastegui – Second backing vocalist
Domingo Hernandez – Saxophone
What has been the best musical experience in the band’s trajectory?
Undoubtedly there have been many unique experiences, because in 2 years of trajectory we have had more than 30 presentations. However, the most ambitious and beautiful project, which has left us with an excellent experience, was the Symphonic Tribute to Bob Marley… For all that it entailed, the realization of the scores, the summoning of the symphonic musicians, the totally independent production and of course a dream result.
Have you had collaborations with other artists?
We have had the opportunity to share the stage with Onechot, Mota Bafana, La Big Landin Orquesta, La Konecta, Pandesousa among other artists, although we have not yet had the chance to record any official material with any collaboration.
Any message for people who are interested in listening to this musical genre.
Reggae is the music of the soul, music to reflect and connect with the good energies of the universe.
For reggae lovers, the recommendation is to listen to Venezuelan groups, because there is a cradle and a very powerful movement, with great talents and a very beautiful message.
Thank you very much to this incredible band for sharing with us and allowing us to do this interview today! I invite you to follow them on their social networks and digital platforms.
Instagram: @420ensamble