Hi Everyone, I hope you're doing good... I just got back from Kansas City
with Los Lobos, where they performed a couple of theater shows in Missouri
and one in Salina. On one of our nights off in a Kansas hotel, the bell man
drove Lobos out to get barbeque. After dinner, he then drove us on a night
tour of the city, where we passed the Charlie Parker Monument, The Jazz Museum,
The Gem Theater and 18 Street. Places where the Jazz Music/Culture lived and
still is being played/perfo rmed. It was great to see these things like the
old buildings and the area where Charlie Parker 1920-1955 played and is from,
And the man who taught me how to play what he called "The Jazz Beat,"
The Best Drummer In The World - Frank Butler 1928-1984.
Hi Everyone,
I hope things are good. I've been good, keeping busy as
usual...
This year Jan. 2008 has started me off in Puerto Vallarta Mexico at
this really nice resort. Where i vacationed for bit, then came back
home to rehearse with Dave Hidalgo and Louie Perez for their tour. Dave
and Louie's Tour started in Oakland at Yoshi's for two nights, which
was a fun place to play. (note: Ruben Estrada 'my dad'
www.EstradaBrothers.com
is performing on May 2008, 15-18 at Yoshi's in
Oakland CA. with Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band www.PonchoSanchez.com,
Rob Fisher, Vince Lateano, Roger Glenn. Its for a Cal Tjader Tribute.)
Hope you can check this out...for more info. go to www.Yoshis.com
After Yoshi's with Dave and Louie show, we went to Carmel Ca. to
Irvine Ca. Ended up doing more shows in April 2008 which started in
Durango Co, New Mexico and Arizona. We played songs written by Dave and
Louie, plus some of their Latin Playboys songs to a welcomed crowd
every night. For more info. go to www.LatinPlayboys.org I hear there
might be some more tour dates for next year 2009.
Los Lobos: Jan. and Feb. i was in the recording studio, recording drums
for Los Lobos Disney Childrens Record/CD (Hollywood Records). Not sure
when the release date is, but its in the final stages. Check
www.LosLobos.org for more
info.
March: was a busy time for Los Lobos. We toured the East Coast for a
while with James Hunter then off to Canada for two weeks. The James
Hunter band is great. They have and great sound. Check them out at
www.JamesHunterMusic.com
April: Coming off the March tour with Lobos. I was
able to rehearse my
band (Camarillo Social Club) and also play our first show at The
Experi-mental Cafe in Oxnard. CA. on April 26, 2008. This was alot of
fun for me. Usually i unload a drumset out of my car. This time i was
unloading a guitar, rhodes piano and amplifier. It was a change for me,
but i was excited for my first live show singing and playing other
musical instruments besides drums. I just would like to thank Jimi,
Bobby, Kevin and Roberto for believing in this project and all the hard
work they put into it. This band is a fun band and i hope we can
continue to keep it fun and write more songs to make music for you
all...
Please keep an eye out for Camarillo Social Club
www.MySpace.com/CamarilloSocialClub I have also uploaded some videos of
both of these performances at www.YouTube.com/CougarVideos hope you can
check them out.
May: CSC (www.myspace.com/CamarilloSocialClub) performed our second
show at The Experi-mental Cafe on May 5, 2008. We had Raul Rico Jr. and
Ruben Estrada from The Estrada Brothers (www.EstradaBrothers.com)
in
the audience. Again, this was a fun time for us. Small crowd but we are
a new band and im hopeing more people will find interest in what we are
doing and would like to hear us play music. Until then...Camarillo
Social Club hopes to perform soon as we look into places to play at. If
you have any ideas let us know at www.MySpace.com/CamarilloSocialClub
I just did this interview for www.MusicWorld3D.net (Ivy's
Interviews)
thats now in the vaults of their archives. Only way to hear it, is you
have to sign up and become a member...Check out the Conga Punks Virtual
House when you get a chance.
Interview: A few days ago i did this interview by Perry Ostrin that you
can hear at:
http://www.perrysdrummingpodcast.mypodcast.com/ hope you enjoy...Thanks
to Rob Bartholme for getting that together.
June: As tour slows down a bit with Los Lobos. I will doing a short
Tour with the band "Tremolocos" in Texas. On June 10-15 2008. For more
info. go to www.Tremolocos.com. This band i produced and the cd is
available on www.CougarRecords.com. Hope
you can get a chance to listen
to the samples of the music. TV Date is also set with Tremolocos for
May 27, 2008 You can also check out their www.myspace.com/Tremoloco
find our more info.
JULY 2008 TOUR: Los Lobos and Los Lonely Boys "BROTHERHOOD TOUR" 2008
for more info. go to www.Loslobos.org
DRUM LESSON'S: at www.RockCityStudios.org: CougarEstrada@aol.com send
me a shout...
Check out Sister Morales
"Talking To The River" 2008 CD. Produced by
Steve Berlin (Los Lobos) at Jack Rock Studio in Austin TX., i recorded
drums on a few tracks of this recording.
www.SistersMorales.com
Hope to see you soon, Peace, Cougar
PS. Please check out CAMARILLO SOCIAL CLUB
www.myspace.com/CamarilloSocialClub we would love to hear from you.
Also videos at www.youtube.com/CougarVideos
December 4, 2007
Hi Everyone, I hope you're all doing good. As we wind on down for the
Holiday Season and get ready for next year 2008. Im currently out on
tour with Los Lobos in Rochester, NY. On way to Manhattan, NYC with a
day off tomorrow. Im looking forward to coming home for Christmas.
This year 2007 has been a busy year. One of my greatest personal
accomplishments for me was to finish my solo CD "Firefly"
(www.CDBaby.com/CougarEstrada)......................,
I also produced
for Casa Julia Records the "Tremoloco" CD (www.CDBaby.com/Tremoloco)
and for Puro Records "John Ulloa Y Su Mision "Rum & Smoke"
(www.CDBaby.com/UlloaJohn).
All CDs on Cougar Records are available for download at:
www.apple.com/itunes/store/music.html
I hope you enjoy listening to them...
My Dad (Ruben Estrada) was performing with his jazz trio
(www.CDBaby.com/CougarRecords)
all this year every Friday and Saturday
night, at this restaurant called Casa Escobar in Oxnard, CA. Due to the
decline of jazz supporters in the area, the musicians were forced to
take a cut back and jazz and live music suffers on...Please support
live music.
With little time I have off of Lobos schedule, I was able to play drums
with my Dad a few times this year, and also got a chance to play with
our jazz band at Steamers Cafe in Fullerton, CA. which was alot of fun.
Check out www.EstradaBrothers.com
for calendar updates on which The
Estrada Brothers will be performing. Also, I've added some videos at
www.Youtube.com/EstradaBrothers
This year 2007 I was able to play with the Nate Birkey Jazz Quintet at
Sunken Gardens (Court House) and John Ulloa at SOHO, in Santa Barbara,
CA. It was good to see the jazz fans support, and good to see alot of
friends come out. Nate lives in NYC and has been living there for a few
years now. You can find out some info. and jazz recordings I did with
him at www.NateBirkey.com.
John Ulloa lives in San Francisco, CA. and
you can find out more info. of his recording "Rum & Smoke" at
www.JohnUlloa.com
2007 Lobos Recordings/DVD I played drums on:
Fats Domino Tribute CD "Goin' Home." Los Lobos recorded "The
Fat Man."
Bob Dylan Movie Soundtrack for "Im not there." Los Lobos recorded
"Billy."
Eric Clapton DVD Guitar Festival Crossroads 2007 (just aired on PBS
Nov. 28, 2007, Los Lobos performed "Dont Worry Baby" and "Mas
Y Mas.")
Theres some cool footage that didnt make the DVD on wwwYoutube.com
Travels: This year 2007 Los Lobos traveled to Canada, Europe and
Mexico. It was great to see alot of fans into Los Lobos in other
Countries. All the Europe Festivals were great and Canadian Festivals
were great as have been. Although I have been to Mexico before with
Lobos, it was good to go to Chihuahua with them. It is where my
Grandparents were from. So traveling along in a tour bus for a 4 or 5
hour drive, from Juarez and into Chihuahua made it a historical moment
for me.
Favorites: one of my favorite bands to see and tour along with Los
Lobos were/was Taj Mahal Trio 2007. This band is amazing...Los Lobos
ended up recording two songs with Taj that I was part of. I heard it
will be out sometime next year 2008. Hopefully soon...
The Congo Square Project: Charity CD for the New Orleans Musicians that
my Dad (Ruben Estrada) and I were asked to be part of. This is a great
cause................ I recommend you check this out. It has a huge
list of various artist/musicians/bands/percussionists, and will be a
two or four disc. compilation. Please go to
www.TheCongoSquareProject.com
for more info. on when this project will
be finished.
2008: Dave Hidalgo and Louie Perez will be doing a short tour together
in January 2008, I will be there playing cajon and playing light
percussion. Dave and Louie will be doing a singer/songwriter show and
taking questions from the audience. I recommend this show for any
musician.
I will be out with Los Lobos next year 2008... theres talk of two major
tours in the making for 2008. Please go to www.LosLobos.org
for more
info.
The Estrada Brothers LIVE CD 2008: This features the Estrada Brothers
at one of their best live performances... I heard a rough mix of it the
other day. I know you will be happy with this production. Raul Rico Jr.
(www.RumbaJazz.com)
and I will be producing this project together.
I will let you know when the release date will be. Please check back
for updates here at www.CougarRecords.com
Recording/Production for 2008: Im currently recording and producing
artist Roberto Zendejas. I will be working on getting his music CD out
for 2008. I'll keep you posted...
Heres a new project that started up around May 2007:
Bob Estrada (The Estrada Brothers) - Drums
Kevin Vazquez (Conga Punks) - Vocals/Acoustic Guitar/Percussion
Roberto Zendejas - Electric Guitar
Jimmy Chastain (Ska Daddyz) - Bass
Yours truly - Vocals/Rhodes Piano/Electric Guitar
The name of the band is CAMARILLO SOCIAL CLUB. Please check out the
video posted on www.Youtube.com/CougarVideos
We are just starting out and looking for gigs, so please become a
friend of the band. We would like to hear from you at
www.MySpace.com/CamarilloSocialClub
Thats about it folks...thank you for listening. Thank you for coming to
the shows...its great to see familiar faces. Steamers Cafe in
Fullerton, CA. Nov. 24, 2007. with The Estrada Brothers was a fun
night.
It was good to play in small jazz club again and to be close to fans. I
received some video footage, so i'll try to get some of that up online
in the future to view at (www.Youtube.com/EstradaBrothers).
Happy Holidays, See you next year...
Peace, Cougar
PS. DRUM LESSONS: Im going to start giving drum lessons again during
the time I have off of Los Lobos Touring Schedule, and may also teach
while im on Tour with Los Lobos 2008. If your interested and im in your
area, send an email to Cougar@CougarRecords.com
October 4, 2007
Hi Everyone, ...im happy to announce the release of Tony Zamora and Tremoloco's 2007 CD, "Dulcinea." I produced this CD for Casa Julia Records. It features:
David Hidalgo (Los Lobos)
Greg Leisz (Dave Alvin, K.D. Lang, Tracy Chapman, Bill Frisell)
Johnny Lee Schell (Bonnie Raitt, Taj Mahal, John Fogerty)
Jennifer Condos (Ryan Adams, Don Henley)
Austin musicians include:
Stephen Bruton (Kris Kristofferson, Alejandro Escovedo)
Ian McLagan (Small Faces, Faces, Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan)
Cindy Cashdollar (Asleep At The Wheel, Bob Dylan, Rosie Flores)
Red Volkaert (Merle Haggard, Dale Watson, Brad Paisley)
Joel Guzman (Tom Russell, Los Super Seven, Ruben Ramos)
Also a special appearance on the track “Hocicona” by
“The Original Lowriders”
Harold Brown, Lee Oskar founding members of legendary L.A. band “WAR.”
Tremoloco's are a Los Angeles based band blending Country, Mexican,
Tex-Mex, and Americana into a fun, listenable, danceable, and heartfelt good time.
Based on traditional musical forms this recording is about songwriting and musicianship.
Strange, moody and atmospheric instrumentals blend seamlessly with Folk and Alt/Country ballads.
Polkas, Cumbias and Two-Steps complete a wide range of influences and styles for a surprisingly cohesive and earthy feel on this disc.
I would like to say thank you to all the great musicians and artist that made this CD. It was an amazing experience to be part of this historic CD. Thank you Tony Zamora...It took almost two years to finish but we did it...you did it...Congratulations.
Please go to www.CDBaby.com/Tremoloco to listen and get more info. or go to www.Tremolocos.com
PS. check out"Tu Ciudad Magazine" October issue 2007. Theres a picture of me taken at Pro-Drum Shop in Hollywood CA. on one page and article that mentions Los Lobos, Estrada Brothers and Cougar Records Label. www.CougarRecords.com
Hope you're enjoying the musical journey, Cougar
June 12, 2007
Hi Everyone, well here it is. “Firefly.” I know I mentioned earlier on this blog that I was going to call my solo CD by another name. "Firefly" seemed to hit the button. Click here on this link below, in case you don't want to read right now and would like to Listen to "Firefly." www.CDBaby.com/CougarEstrada
I'd like to thank My Dad (Ruben Estrada) for his Love, Support and Friendship. I couldn’t have done this without you supporting me as an artist. I have learned a great deal from you and playing music with you. From the days of rehearsing in the house and at the Barber Shop here in Camarillo, CA. I cant remember a time when there wasn’t music being played in the house. My two sisters Rubeena Martinez and Peggy Estrada also for their Love and Support. You both know what its like to be brought up in a musical family. The good times and the bad times as Mom would say. I love you both forever.
I'd like to sincerely thank all the musicians/bands I have played with from Santa Barbara County, CA. to Ventura County, CA. to East Los Angeles, CA. To name a few here's some of the bands that I used to play with and have made a musical impression on me through out the years. Spirit Prayer, Nuestro, Canela, Memo, Spencer The Gardener, Zack and The Modern View, Nate Birkey Quintet, Tim Young Blues Band, Little Al and The Infidels, The Bomb, Ska Daddyz, Papa Nata, Bobby Watley and four of the most influential bands in my life The Estrada Brothers, ConGa PunKs, Latin Playboys (Dave Hidalgo and Louie Perez of Los Lobos side project) and Los Lobos.
After my Mom (Delia Estrada) passed away, I got the call to play drums for Los Lobos. Its been five years being the Touring Drummer for Los Lobos. If you read more of my blog you can read about all the cool stuff that I have been part of with Los Lobos. Thank you Steve Berlin, David Hidalgo, Louie Perez, Conrad Lozano and Cesar Rosas for picking me to play drums with you guys. I'm grateful to be part of this musical journey. By the way. Did anyone catch the 2007 ALMA Awards on CBS? Los Lobos asked Billy Gibbons (ZZ Top) to perform with them. Los Lobos received Pioneer Life Time Award from ALMA 2007.
Thank you Kevin Vazquez for your help on making this CD possible. Making numerous trips to Goleta, CA. (Isle Vista) at The Away Team Studios with me and spending all day and night here at Cougar Records Studio. Thank you for your great sequence and being positive about this project.
Thank you to my friends and musicians who played on “Firefly." Vivien Mason, Michael Bibb, Kevin Vazquez, Ian Peters, Dan Zimmerman, Luis Cabrera, Nik Green, Al Vafa, Tony Zamora, Joe Rotundi, Nate Birkey, Bob Estrada, Ruben Estrada, Henry Estrada and Roberto Zendejas.
Special Thank you to my Beautiful Girlfriend Stephanie Guerra. Who happened to do the Art Work/CD Layout of “Firefly.” Thank you for being part of my life and believing in me. You have shown me how to walk the line. I love you…
I would like to thank and dedicate this CD to my friends and musicians that are not with us, ones that have been a great influence on life and music to me (not in any order). Frank Butler (Drums), Noah Porter (Bass Guitar), Ted Gutierrez (Vocalist and Conga drummer), Long John Oliva (Percussionist) Bernie Larios (Vocalist and Bass Guitar), Tony Moreno (Drums), Joe Patterson (Tenor Saxophone), Steve Genardini (Conga drummer), Jack Nava (Activist), Jess Nava (Piano), Benny Sotelo (Conga drummer) and (Larry Nass (Guitar).
Ladies and Gentlemen I present to you my first solo CD FIREFLY .
Please go to www.CougarRecords.com, www.myspace.com/CougarRecords, or www.CDBaby.com/cd/CougarEstrada to LISTEN and get more info. about this CD.
Thank you for listening. Peace, Cougar
May 22, 2007
Hi Everyone, here's a quick update: My solo CD "FireFly" will be done in two weeks, next month, middle of June 2007. The manufacturing is taking a bit longer than expected. I will have it online to listen to very soon. Please check back here on my BLOG for updates. I'll get back...
Thanks for listening, Cougar
April 5, 2007
Hi Everyone, im excited to announce "Rum & Smoke". I produced this recording for Puro Records 2007. This is a Latin Jazz CD of my friend and fellow percussionist John Ulloa's Debut CD. John Ulloa is a percussionist from San Francisco, CA.
Please go to www.JohnUlloa.com, www.MySpace.com/JohnUlloa, or www.CDBaby.com/UlloaJohn for more information about John Ulloa. These three web sites you will be able to read up, listen, or purchase this product.
Musicians on this CD are: John Ulloa: congas, percussion; Cougar Estrada: drumset; Ruben Estrada: Piano; Malcolm Ian Peters: Bass; Edmund Velasco: Saxophones and flute; Nate Birkey: Trumpet; Brian "El Bacalao" Andres: Drumset, percussion; Michael P. Lazarus: Bass; Coto Pincheira: Keyboards; Wes Montgomery: Saxophones and flute; and Liza Jimenez: Vocals.
Thanks for listening, Cougar
www.CougarRecords.com
PS. my solo CD will be released next month, at the end of May 2007.
December 2006
Hi Everyone, just got back from San Francisco,
CA where I played with Los Lobos at The Fillmore West Dec.
8 and 9, 2006. These shows are always fun and the crowd was amazing.
Thanks San Francisco again for the nice
welcome. Calexico co-headlined. They sounded
great...
Prior to San Francisco Fillmore shows, Los
Lobos toured Florida briefly, then to Baumholder Germany on Dec.
6, 2006. We played for the US Army Troops
(Ironsides) welcome home. The troops were full of life and happy
to be coming home. It was my first time playing for the US Military. It
was very fun, safe and secure. We got treated really well and a nice
welcome from the troops. Alonzo Bodden (Comedian) opened up the
show. He was funny. Check him out at www.AlonzoBodden.com
Highlights for 2006: Were playing on stage with
Los Lobos, Herbie Hancock, and Carlos Santana at The Producers Guild Awards
2006.
Australia and Germany Tour with Los Lobos 2006.
The release of the new Los Lobos CD 2006 "The Town and
the City" can be found at www.LosLobos.org It got
great reviews that you can read at Los Lobos web site. CD Reviewers called it
best record since "Kiko". I'm honored to be part of the
recording of Los Lobos "The Town and the City."
Los Lobos performed on Conan O'Brien Nov. 13, 2006.
That was fun. We performed the song "Hold On" from the 2006 release "The Town
and The City." This live TV version was cool. I got to add some jazz and
take a bit of a drum solo towards the end on the performance.
MY SOLO CD: im about 85% Done with my Solo CD. I'm really
happy with the way its coming out. I'm hoping to have it done by
March 2007. Its taken a very long time but I ran into financial and
time problems with my busy schedule. I will be working on it more the next
few months, trying to finish it.
The new CD 2006 "Latinology" by Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox
is out. Yours truly on drums. Can be found at www.Guzmanfox.com. I talked about it
more in one of my earlier blogs. You can hear sound clips at www.myspace.com/guzmanfox
Percussionist John Ulloa's (www.JohnUlloa.com) CD "Rum and Smoke" that I
produced is set for a release in Jan. 2007. You can hear some
early sound clips at www.myspace.com/johnulloa This
features Nate Birkey, Edmund Velasco, Ruben Estrada, Ian Peters, John
Ulloa, and Yours truly on drums. West Coast Latin Jazz...
The Estrada Brothers "Live" is still in the mixing stages. We hope
to have this out on www.CougarRecords.com by Spring of
2007. I will keep you posted.
Los Lobos Kiko DVD: release is moved back. Now set for release
on Spring 2007. This came out really great. Again, I feel honored to be
part of this DVD recording history of Los Lobos.
That's pretty much it folks. Los Lobos Touring Schedule is winding
down for the holidays. Los Lobos last shows for the rest
of the year 2006 are at House Of Blues on Dec. 26 (Anaheim) and Dec. 27
(Los Angeles), then off to New York City to the Beacon Theatre on Dec. 29, 2006
co-headlining with Gov't Mule. Then I will be playing
local gigs around California, (Ventura County and Santa Barbara, CA County) for
the Month of Jan. 2007.
Los Lobos for 2007. Check out www.CougarRecords.com
TOUR schedule or www.LosLobos.org
TOUR schedule. Los Lobos will be doing an Acoustic Tour Feb.
2007. Los Lobos pull out the acoustic instruments and play some
Latin,Traditional, Mexican, Folkorico, World Music...
This is early, DRUM MAGAZINE www.DrumMagazine.com
did a story on yours truly in the Jan. 2007 issue. Id like to say a sincere
thank you to Susan Clary and Robert L. Doerschuk for making that
happen. It was fun...
Happy Holidays, Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Talk
to you soon, Cougar
PS. thanks to DW Drums, Sabian Cymbals, and Promark Sticks for
their Tour support. You guys make it easy to
play...
April 2006
April 1 and 2, I produced a Latin jazz CD for my friend
percussionist John Ulloa (www.JohnUlloa.com) from
San Francisco, CA has worked with various musicians in the Bay
Area. We recorded down there in Studio City (LA) CA. Musicians on this West
Coast Latin Jazz recording session were Ruben Estrada of The Estrada Brothers on
Acoustic Piano (
www.EstradaBrothers.com), Nate Birkey
on Trumpet (
www.NateBirkey.com), Edmund
Velasco on Baritone, Tenor Saxophone, and Flute (
www.EdmundVelasco.com), John Ulloa on
Percussion (
www.JohnUlloa.com) , Ian
Peters on Baby Bass (
www.EstradaBrothers.com
and yours truly on Drums (
www.CougarRecords.com). CD will be
called "Smoke and Rum." for more info. go to (
www.JohnUlloa.com), I'll keep you posted
when the release date is. I go back to mix in May, so soon following that this
CD will be available.
Songs to expect on this CD are: Little Sunflower,
Moanin (Charles Mingus), Moliendo Cafe, Afro Blue, Besame Mucho, Sofrito (Mongo
Santamaria), Manteca (Dizzy Gillespie and Chano Pozo) etc...I'm sure
you will like the versions this group of musicians did.
LOS LOBOS: I'm heading out to Australia tomorrow night.
I'm dreading the flight but excited to visit that country. I have never been to
Australia. Its a short trip having us back in time for Easter, should be
fun.
So I got word on the release date for Los Lobos new CD. August
sometime. I don't want to say too much about it. Its going to be
great...I personally feel really honored to play on this record and to be part
of this great band. I don't know much more about it, like the title but
soon as I found out, I'll keep you posted, also on a more definite release
date.
The Estrada Brothers: I want to thank WBGO in NY for playing
The Estrada Brothers new CD "Two For the Road." I'm glad the band is
still alive on the airwaves in NY. We've been getting a lot of emails of people
saying that they have heard the new CD and wondering where to purchase it.
Here's a link to where "Two For the Road" can be purchased:
www.cdbaby.com/cd/estradabrothers
SOLO CD Update: I'm done writing and tracking with my solo CD
here at Cougar Records Studio. So now im on to the next step of
mixing. Little by little im getting closer to finishing.
After this trip with Los Lobos to Australia, I will
be performing locally with Songon at The Brewhouse at 9pm on April 19, 2006 in
Santa Barbara, CA. This is a smoking 5 piece Latin jazz band. Musicians included
on this performance will be John Douglas on Piano (
www.johnenricodouglas.com) Ruben
Martinez on Flute, Raul Rico Jr. on Congas (
www.RumbaJazz.com), Ian Peters on Bass,
and yours truly on Drums (
www.CougarRecords.com).
Thanks for listening, Cougar
PS. here's something to get everyone talking and excited. The
Estrada Brothers Live at Steamers CD coming 2006. Talk about it more next
time.
Cougar
Happenings
February
9, 2006
Hi Everyone, I'm
still working on my solo CD, but I had to put that on the shelf for a bit
while im currently in the recording studio with Los Lobos(www.loslobos.net) I
have been in the recording studio with them on and off since they
started in Nov. of 2005. This next CD is going to be great, I'm
sure you will all enjoy. Cool sounds...I'll keep you posted on
when the release date is.
TEXAS: January
2006 was a good month. I went to Austin TX for three days and recorded
drums for Joel Guzman and Sarah Fox. Joel Guzman just won his second Grammy.
Congrats Joel...Someday, I'd like to get one of those. Los Aztex music
was really cool. Kind of Rock En Espanol/Jazz/Latin Jazz/Tejano very cool
earthy vibe all mixed together. Go to www.Aztex.biz for more info.
While in Texas Los Lobos were
doing a short Texas run Acoustic Tour 2006, so I met up with Dave
Hidalgo (Los Lobos) and we hooked up with Max Baca (Los Texmaniacs)
and recorded two tracks for him, on his next CD www.Texmaniacs.com Rumor has,
some of Los Lonely Boys will also be on this recording . Augie
Meyers (Bob Dylan) played Vox (organ/keyboard) also on this session with
Dave and I. Augie is a veteran. It was a pleasure to record with cats
like this. Check out www.AugieMeyers.com Los Texmaniacs
recording should be out sometime this year 2006.
Santa Barbara, CA: Also
in January 2006 I met up with John Douglas (Bongo Logic) www.JohnEnricoDouglas.com piano
player/arranger who lives in Santa Barbara, CA. at Orange Whip Studios. I
played drums and percussion on six songs for Stephanie Sivers (Vocalist)
This is an interesting project. This will be Classical/Opera Songs done
in the musical style of Latin Jazz/Jazz Music. It was good
to meet up with some old friends. Jim Connolly (Nate Birkey Quintet), Raul
Rico Jr. (Somos Son), Randy Tico (Matrix, Flora Purim and Airto) That was
a fun day and ended up late morning but we got all six songs. For more
info go to www.StephanieSivers.com
Tremolocos: Still
in recording session in Los Angeles but getting closer to finishing each day.
Tony Zamora has been putting together the tracks while im in the studio with
Lobos for me to hear. I just talked with him today while he was in the studio. I
should be receiving the tracks soon. Then Tony and I will decide and add finishing
touches to www.Tremolocos.com
Ventura, CA (Ventura Theatre):
Los Lobos 2/23/06 will be performing at The Ventura Theatre. Go to www.CougarRecords.com check out "TOUR."
That will be fun playing close to home. I haven't played there in ages. I
played with my Dad (The Estrada Brothers, www.EstradaBrothers.com) back
in the late 80's, we opened up for Tito Puente, Poncho Sanchez, and Ruben
Blades. I have also played with Ventura County Bands: Spencer The
Gardener (www.SpencerTheGardener.com) Canela,
Rumba Jazz, (led by Raul Rico Jr. www.RumbaJazz.com) Memo, Nuestro...im sure
im missing someone. Every time I have played there at the Ventura Theatre,
it was always opening up for some other act. This will be cool to be part
of the main act at The Ventura Theatre.
* DOWNLOAD MUSIC *,
* DOWNLOAD MUSIC *, and * DOWNLOAD MUSIC *: All my
CDs are available for downloading. You can DOWNLOAD the whole CD or
just One Song. Go to www.CougarRecords.com check out the links
to the left where its says "DOWNLOAD" and find a web site that best suits
you for DOWNLOADING SONGS.
Peace, Cougar
December 5, 2005
Hi Everyone, it's that time of the year again. As I reflect back
on 2005, I can say it was a great year. Got to play drums and travel
with Los Lobos to Mexico, Europe, Canada, and Japan.
One of the highlights for this year was playing on stage with
Neil Young and Emmylou Harris. Neil Young sat in with Lobos at his
19th Bridge School Benefit in Mountain View, California. It was an honor
to perform with Los Lobos and Neil Young. I played "Cinnamon
Girl" both days with Los Lobos, and played with Emmylou Harris as she
sat in with Lobos and sang duet alongside Dave Hidalgo on a Los Lobos
song called "Little John." That's was an incredible concert. From backstage I
had the privilege to see Nora Jones, Good Charlotte, Linda Ronstadt, and
Jerry Lee Lewis. Wow...that was all incredible and it felt good to be part of. I
cant speak more highly on what it was like to be part of this cause, and to
perform with such great artist. Do a google search for NEIL YOUNG BRIDGE SCHOOL
BENEFIT.
...another highlight was in Mexico when I got to see Little Richard perform
at a rock show, or was that Spain? I forget. Los Lobos played
after Little Richard. I just wanted to mention that. Its really a
treat to see some of the veterans play. Its historical...
I produced Spencer The Gardeners "LULU", Cougar
Records "Sexy Latin Lounge Returns" and The Estrada Brothers "Two For
the Road" Featuring Ruben Estrada which was all released this
year 2005. I spoke a lot about these projects in my prior blogs
so for more info. please go to www.CougarRecords.com
With Los Lobos: I am playing this month (DEC.
2005) House of Blues in Los Angeles, Anaheim, and Vegas. Don't forget
Telluride Colorado for New Years Eve. Also this is backward I should
mention this first. The Fillmore with Lobos. DEC. 16 and
17,
I will be playing with my Dad (The Estrada Brothers, www.EstradaBrothers.com) at Catalina
Bar and Grill(www.CatalinaJazzClub.com) in
Hollywood California on DEC. 21, 2005. This will
be the last show for 2005. I would like to thank all the DJs at KJAZ 88.1 FM
Long Beach (
www.JazzandBlues.org) for
playing The Estrada Brothers "Two For the Road".
Its really hard doing an independent CD and trying to send it out, hoping
that the radio station will play your music. I wish Conga Punks, Spencer
The Gardener and Sexy Latin Lounge would get the same treatment.
Thanks again KJAZ for keeping The Estrada Brothers
alive.
Cougar 2006
Projects: Look out for
Tremolocos.
www.Tremolocos.com I just got back from
Austin Texas producing two-time Grammy winner Joel Guzman, Cindy
Cashbox, and Red Volkaert. Tremolocos is going to be a variety of
things. Its kinda hard to describe. I seem to have the same problem with
describing Conga Punks (
www.CongaPunks.com) . Go to
www.Tremolocos.com check out the site.
Sign up on the mailing list and stay connected. I'll write more about it
next year as we get closer to finishing it.
Spencer The Gardener: www.SpencerTheGardener.com
is doing another CD for 2006. This will have some old songs redone from the
CD "boy with the two big heads"and more 'fiesta sounding' music. We are in
pre-production right now.
Beto: I'm currently producing Beto Zendahas
Cougar Records Studio. This is going to be Rock/Funk en Espanol. If you like
Cafe Tacuba. You'll dig BETO. This will be release on Cougar Records
in 2006.
My Solo CD: The Freak is in the works. I may do a
double CD. I have too many songs and I don't want to leave any out. This is
going to be different. That's all I'll say. I'll keep you posted on the
progress as I move along on the
NEWS at www.CougarRecords.com
.
New Web site: You'll notice the new www.CougarRecords.com web
site 2006. I'm stepping down this year as far as having a musician drummer site.
I want to concentrate more on my CDs. But I'll still be writing in my blog,
keeping you posted on new releases and updating my Touring
Schedule.
Have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Peace - Cougar
PS. see you in Australia
2006
Oct. 4, 2005
Hi Everyone, Finally after 10 years. I just finished producing The
Estrada Brothers Latin Jazz Band .
We got back into the recording studio last year and did our 5th CD. Our 4th
CD "Get Out Of My Way" was released back in 1995 on Fantasy/Milestone
Records. Check out this new CD "Two For the Road" 2005. It can be
purchased at all the live shows or on the Internet at CDBaby
(You can listen to tracks also at this link or read the Bio. on
my Dad.) To me "Two For the Road" is the best CD of The Estrada
Brothers. Im sure you will enjoy.
CD Release Party: for The Estrada Brothers will be on Oct. 29, 2005 at Steamers
Cafe in Fullerton California. I recommend you make reservations
a few days before the show (714) 871-8800
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Los Lobos: I'm out on tour doing the East Coast Acoustic Tour 2005 with Lobos
til Oct. 9, 2005. The tour has been going really good. I will be in the studio
with Lobos the months of Oct. and Nov. recording for their latest CD.
The Freak: I plan on going into Cougar Records Studio for the months of Oct.,
Nov., and Dec. 2005 and have it finished for next year 2006 (more info. at
CougarRecords.)
Cougar Records: I think im all done for this year of releasing any more music
so if you get a chance check out all my CDs at CougarRecords.com
1. Conga
Punks (Music's Genre Defiance)
2.
Spencer The Gardener (Lulu)
3. Cougar
Records Presents: Sexy Latin Lounge Returns (featuring The Estrada Brothers)
4. The
Estrada Brothers (Two For the Road)
For those of you that have purchased these CDs online. Thank you very much
for your support. Its nice to know your are listening...
Peace, Cougar
P.S. Theres talk about doing another Conga Punks CD. Would love to hear from
you regarding this project, if there is any interest, write to me at Cougar@CougarRecords.com
July 6, 2005
Hi Everyone, I know its been along time since I have written anything, its because I was waiting for my CD to get done. I was starting to feel like a liar,... Well its done...Here it is
Sexy Latin Lounge Returns (Double CD.) Its a romantic CD with 32 songs that I produced. The CDs include the musical styles of Jazz/Lounge/Party/Latin Ballroom Dancing sounds featuring my Dad (Ruben Estrada) and Uncle Henry Estrada - The Estrada Brothers.
I tried to capture history and save it on CD for anyone who is interested.
Sexy Latin Lounge Returns (Double CD)
Also, Kevin Vazquez (Predator Arts) is working his butt off trying to get the art work done in a week for my Dads CD.
The Estrada Brothers "Two For the Road," featuring Ruben Estrada. Im leaving to Europe and Japan this month and Im hopeing by August 2005 when I get back. The Estrada Brothers will be released. I'll keep you posted when I get back.
Spencer The Gardener Fans...Spencer will be playing De La Guerra Plaza in Santa Barbara on Fiesta (Old Spanish Days) on Aug. 6 @ 8:30pm (one short set). So if you haven't picked up a copy of
"Lulu" you can get it then, or now here online at
www.cdbaby.com/cd/SpencerTheGardener I CO-produced this CD with Spencer Barnitz.
Dont for my first project i did in 2000
Conga Punks I just listened to that the other day. I cant believe its been 5 years already. If you like Ozomatli, Latin Playboys, Manu Chao, and Los Lobos. You'll like
Conga Punks.
Tony Zamora and Tremolocos? Still in the final stages of recording tracks. Mando (Tour Manager for Los Lobos) played drums on a track and Vince Hidalgo (Mother Natures Revenge) played Jarana, Tony Zamora played guitar, and yours truly played Bass. Yes..I PLAYED BASS. First time I have ever been recorded as a bass player ha ha ha. Its was fun..the track came out good. You like the song "Loco Kumbia." Check with Tony at
www.Tremolocos.com and bug him to get this recording finished.
Los Lobos: Just did the recording of the song "Pawn Shop" on the Sublime Tribute record that was just released. CD has Jack Johnson, Fishbone, No Doubt and others. If you've seen a Lobos show recently you will find yourself dancing to the reggae sounds of Los Lobos playing "Pawn Shop" Live...The crowd really enjoys this song.
Also with Lobos listen for the new animated cartoon on Disney called "Handy Manny." We did the soundtrack to the theme song. Its a kids cartoon, so its a fun song that will make you want to eat ice cream and have a Birthday and blow out the candles. Its a happy song...
Well, thats about it...I have to pack for three weeks. Im looking forward to this tour. Especially Japan. Too bad we are only there for two days but it should be fun.
Dont forget my Dad (Ruben Estrada) is playing piano in Ventura, CA. every Thursday at 7:30pm to 11:30pm at this coffee/wine/beer/ all ages club.
Club Des Artistes on Main Street . The music he is playing is similar to this CD
Sexy Latin Lounge Returns Its a fun place with honest people and laid back atmosphere. Take a date...
Im still working on my Solo CD
THE FREAK i'll be putting more time into it when i get back from Europe. This CD is going to be weird i know it. Start laughing now...
London, Spain, Italy, Japan here I come. Talk to you when I get back in August 2005 or see you at De La Guerra Plaza on Aug. 6, 2005 with Spencer The Gardener (www.SpencerTheGardener.com) Thanks for listening and reading my words, Cougar
PS. Latin Jazz Fans: "Two For the Road" Featuring Ruben Estrada of The Estrada Brothers coming on Cougar Records August 2005, sign up on the mailing list for Cougar updates at www.CougarRecords.com
February
9, 2005
Hi Everyone, its
been along time since i've written, heres a February 2005
update. I've been home on vacation and getting cabin fever along with
my two dogs Kitty and Bwackie. They are talking Spanish to me now,
and i cant speak the language. For reals too...but thats another
story. I wont bore you. Hmmm...maybe its just me.
Well, it looks like
The Estrada Brothers CD i produced is going to be on our own label.
I tried man...I tried about eight different labels but no one wanted
to take a chance. We came close with GNP Crescendo but the deal didnt
go through. So..im going to have my partner Kevin Vazquez (predator
arts) start working on the art. Probably have that done at the end
of March 2005 early April 2005. I might have some sound clips up on
www.EstradaBrothers.com so you can hear
it before it comes out. I'll work on that with my webmaster www.Aalva.net. By the way, THANKS ALFRED FOR
THE HARD WORK YOU PUT INTO MY SITE. YOU DID A GREAT JOB BRO.
My Sexy Latin Lounge
Returns (double CD) ran into art work trouble. So, im going to go
with another company to do the art work. I know i promised for it
to be done and i got some interest when The Estrada Brothers played
at Steamers Cafe in Fullerton CA. last week. Im working on it.
Its all done, i just need to get them pressed. I hope to have them
done in March 2005.
I tracked four songs
for my solo CD two weeks ago at Goldmine Recording Studios in Ventura
CA. It went great. Im excited. This week Feb. 13, 2005 i go back in
for the second session.
Spencer The Gardener
CD "Lulu" will be out in March 2005. Keep a look out at www.CougarRecords.com
or www.SpencerTheGardener.com We just
had it mastered by Dave McNair in NYC. Spencer is working on the art
work and website. Its a realy good record. Its the kind of music that
will make you happy.
Tony Zamora from
www.Tremolocos.com will be
back in the studio this month Feb.. I know alot of people have been
asking us. Little by little we are getting this recording done. I
got to call Tony back. He wants to do some pre-production here
at Cougar Records Studio. Things are moving along. Hang in there
with us folks.
What else...I start
the three week Acoustic Tour with Los Lobos soon (Feb. 27, 2005)
this should be alot of fun. We get to do Santa Barbara, CA. Im excited..my
homebase. It will be nice to do a local show and then come home to
my own bed ha ha. Plus see some friends i havent seen in awhile.
Thats it for now...i
hope you all like my updated www.CougarRecords.com 2005 webpage. I
know those pictures can be funny on The Freak Page.
Hope to see you
on the Los Lobos 2005 Acoustic Tour.
Peace, Cougar
PS. Hi
Tanya, i hope you're doing good.
December 6, 2004
Ok..does anyone
read this stuff im writing? I cant tell...So here i go again.
Well, i seem to
have messed up a few updates by mentioning Oct. when i should have
put in Dec. I guess that happens being out on the road. I forget
what day it is etc...But im going to catch up and hopefully not
make any mistakes on this update.
Im still waiting
to receive the CDs "Sexy Latin Lounge Returns." They should
be arriving soon at my house. Hopefully before Christmas time. So
by the time i get around to it, you will see it posted on www.CougarRecords.com
in Jan. 2005 to purchase it or listen to it. Im going to need some
feed back, so im hoping you will all add some reviews about
it.
By the way my
Dad is featured on Big Bad Voodoo Daddys Christmas CD. He plays
the Vibraphone solo on "Blue Christmas" More info. at www.EstradaBrothers.com
Im done producing
and mixing Spencer The Gardener. Im very pleased at the
way it came out. The world needs to hear this music. I hope it
will be accepted and make heads turn in a positive way. This CD
will be called "Lulu." We are looking at a March 2005 release.
The website is coming soon. Look for updates at www.SpencerTheGardener.com(not
up yet) sometime in Feb. or Mar. of 2005
What else...Oh
yeah, I want to say Hi to Sally. Good seeing
you at Sparks, NV. That was a fun show with Lobos. Even better cause
I won $400.00 playing slots.
Three more shows
with Los Lobos left for 2004. So im off to San Francisco to play
The Fillmore this weekend Dec. 10 and 11. Then one more to Albuquerque,
NM for New Year's Eve show at Sandia Casino. 2004 has been
a great year for me. A whole new step in life, relationships and
musical growth, I have learned alot this year. Now..i cant
wait to step into 2005 and start my original Solo CD. I hope to
be tracking in Jan. 2005. Im excited...
Everyone
Have a Merry Christmas and a safe New Year. Thank
you for a great supportful year, looking forward to seeing
you next year 2005. My new updated www.CougarRecords.com
will be launched in Jan. 2005. There will be pics of
me, CDs, and some funny FREAKY STUFF hint hint.
*Before
i go i want to end this update with a request: Please
say a prayer and think positive thoughts towards my new
friend Tanya in Helotes, TX. who is 22 years old and just got
diagnosed with lung cancer lastweek. She starts Chemotherapy soon.
Peace, Cougar
Monday,
November 08, 2004 Hi Everyone, Im just got back home today
from playing with Los Lobos, John Hiatt and Robert Plant at Clevelands
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. It was amazing...Im in awe..Robert
Plant is the best. He was actually looking at me like he used to do
to John Bonham when Led Zeppelin would perform. What energy what a
voice. Oh man...i cant describe it. We played some Lead Belly tunes
one of which Led Zeppelin covered called "Gallows Pole" on
Led Zeppelin 3. We finished the show with that song and Los Lobos
Rocked alongside. Although i didnt sleep at all the night before in
Minneapolis, two cups of coffee (actually i slept for 20 minutes)
sit on the drums infront of a sold out show. I had to be on it...It
was really fun. I think there will be a copy of it flying around somewhere
on Los Lobos message board (LosLobos.net) with the tapers and all.
I definately have to have a copy.
What else?
Ok i know i said my Double CD "Sexy Latin Lounge Returns"will
probably be done by the next time you hear from me in Oct.. Its almost
done. The art work is being put together and the CDs are being made.
I should have it any day now..
Spencer The Gardener: We are in the mixing stages. This CD
is going to be good. Spencer The Gardener is longtime overdue. I'll
keep you posted in October.
The Estrada Brothers: Well im getting some call backs from
Record Labels. I just want to make sure we get the right deal. So
far it seems that we might be better off doing it ourselves. If that
happens then it will be out next year 2005.
I dont know if i announced this. Im doing a solo CD. Yep...I
wont say too much but i will start tracking sometime at the end of
November / middle of December. More info. will be available at the
new updated Cougar Records
site 2005. Yeah, im going to sing.
Los Lobos have a DVD that just came out. With yours truly on drums.
Its called "Live at The Fillmore". Right now its a free preview every
weekend for the month of Nov. 2005 on Direct TV. Official release
is Nov. 9, 2005.
Thats it for now. I have to do laundry and head back out to NYC to
play a 20 minute show with Lobos tomorrow.
Peace, Cougar
Cougar Estrada Update
July 28, 2004
Hi Everyone, I just thought I'd keep you informed on what im
up to. So far im still Touring with Los Lobos promoting the
new CD 2004 "The Ride" and the follow up EP called "Ride
This." Touring has been great and all the TV stuff we did. We did
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, The Late Late Show with Craig Kilborn,
LATV (KJLA), The Dave Letterman Show, and Conan O'Brien Show. It
looks like we will be having sushi and heading to Japan in October
2004. I cant wait...
I just finished producing 15 tracks of The Estrada Brothers which
we finished mixing on June 3-7, 2004 and im shopping it right now
to see if I can get it signed. Keep your finger crossed. I'll
keep you posted on its progress.
Remember my Canciones Para Delia CD i did for my Mom? Volumes 1
& 2? Well, I decided to make a double CD and package them both together.
Im working on it with my partner Kevin Vazquez who is doing the
art work. This time around its going to be called "Sexy Latin
Lounge Returns." Its should be done by the middle of August. Please
check back for updates. I will have it for sale on this website.
Thats pretty much it for right now..im heading out to San Francisco
to do a taping for Los Lobos DVD that will be out in Winter 2004.
Im excited about this. Lobos Rock..
Oh..i'd like to thank Dave Katzman (Buddy Guy Legends) for hooking
me up with Bobby Boose, who gave me my Sabian Endorsment. Thanks
guys for believing in me. The cymbals are awesome.
Alright got to catch a plane..Check out my calendar and come on
bye and say hi if you're in there area. I'll buy you a drink, stolis
on the rocks. Peace, Cougar
Asia Tour
Oct 15, 2004
Hi Everyone, im back from Japan and Hawaii. All i can say is i had
a very good time. The people in Japan are so nice i might just someday
move there. I played with Los Lobos at this Asagiri Jam Festival.
Right in front of Mt. Fuji but it was cloudy and raining so we couldn't
see it. This band opened up for us called Soil Pimp Sessions. A band
from Tokyo that got down. They play modern jazz with a twist
of rock/latin. Its hard to explain, if you can find the music on the
web. I recommend you check it out.
Although it was raining on and off, the crowd was into it. They loved
the music and Los Lobos got a great reception. Heres the thing that
amazed me. The people were sober and really going crazy with excitement
after solos and the high energy we put out. It made me proud to be a
musician which can sometime alter every once in a while living in the
USA. But i still love it. What else can i do?
So Japan was amazing and we played a few more shows that had the
same response, i was sadden to leave.
Next stop Hawaii...Wow...Its been seven years since Los Lobos had
played there. Im so glad i am playing with Lobos to have gone to
Hawaii. It was a paid vacation. We played shows in Oahu, Maui, and Hilo.
The water is clean, still and blue. Tony Zamora (Tremolocos)
and I went running on the beach and dove into the waters of Maui. It
was relaxing and refreshing. I live here in Ventura County and the
waters here (California) you cant compare. I had no idea the ocean
is supposed to look that clean. I ended up going longboard surfing with
Tony in Waikiki Beach the last morning there. First time ever...I actually
stood up my first time. We only surfed for and hour but i was very tired.
Surfing is a good work out. It was a good experience. Finally some
relaxation.
All right...thats enough of my vacation.
Im still in the studio CO-producing the next Spencer The Gardener
CD. Now we are at David Vought studio in Thousand Oaks,
CA. Each time we get closer and closer to getting done but we are
still 70% shy of finishing.
Still trying to get The Estrada Brothers CD i produced signed on
a label. I think we are close. Keep your fingers crossed.
What else? Next cool thing is LATV
(www.latv.com) on Oct. 18. Live performance with Los Lobos. We start at 9pm. We are promoting for a show at The Universal Amphitheater on Oct. 22.
Also, Im playing with Los Lobos at the Cleveland Rock n Roll Hall of Fame on Nov. 7. Inducting blues artist "Leadbelly." Robert Plant is going to sing. Im excited about that. So..i went out and bought brand new Led Zeppelin CDs, cause mine are scratched. We are going to cover "Gallows Pole" so i'd like to get close to pay tribute to Jon Bonham (drummer for Led Zeppelin). We'll see...There was only one Jon Bonham.
Sexy Latin Lounge Returns (double CD in the works, Canciones Para Delia Volume 1 & 2) will be done by the end of November. I promise.
Thats it for now. I'll be back sometime in November, hopefully by then i'll have good news on The Estrada Brothers CD. Have a Happy Halloween.
Peace, Cougar
