San Simón’s music is best described as soul with a Caribbean pulse. A world music group based in the NYC area, San Simón is fueled by the backgrounds of its players, who come from the Spanish-speaking Caribbean.
The group is led by guitarist/director/composer Evan Ubiera, who pens the original songs and arrangements for this small ‘combito’ of choice talents from the area. Evan Ubiera carefully considers the intersection of various musical worlds from Motown to Fania, DR and PR villages, Philly to Jersey, and back to NYC to map out San Simón’s music. The limitations and virtues of this fun and exciting lineup make for an honest and unique experience. It’s a family of smiles and good vibes honoring those who came before by using it as a platform for something all their own.
San Simon has performed at local NJ/NYC venues such as Groove Bar, Camaradas, The Shrine, Silvana, C’mon Everybody, Fox and Crow, and Union City’s Cultural Center. Notable festivals and events: Music in The Park, Lincoln Park, Jersey City, NJ; Reddit’s Hispanic Heritage Month, Manhattan, NY; Amplify Latinx’ Hispanic Heritage Month, Boston, MA; Bodega Jams, East Brooklyn, NY. San Simón released an EP titled “Talk To Me” in 2017, followed by their 2019 single release of “Golden Lady,” a merengue cover of the classic Stevie Wonder song.
Their music has been featured on NPR’s Morning Becomes Electric in Southern California and on Discolai’s Dominican music blog for the release of their 2021 comment on police brutality, “Hey!”. They have also been included in numerous online playlists around the world.
Currently, San Simón is brewing a new sonic concoction, promising a deeper exploration of their diverse influences. Stay tuned, and visit San Simón’s social channels to stay updated on tastes of what’s to come!