Canton Mambo
Canton Mambo
A Descarga that bridges continents, this piece draws from the pulse of Afro-Latin rhythm and the timbre of the GuZheng, a traditional Chinese instrument. At once ancestral and experimental, Canton Mambo embodies the dialogue between heritage and innovation, finding common ground in the joy of improvisation and the spirit of the dance floor.
Lotus
The latest chapter extends the vision even further. Rooted in Chinese folkloric melodies and carried by the cadence of salsa and Latin funk, Lotus is both a tribute and a meditation. Born of resilience and transformation, it reflects a year of personal challenges while celebrating growth, the eternal symbol of the lotus rising from the mud.
RECORD DESCRIPTION
7-inch Chinese-jade colored vinyl record produced with DMM cutting. Stereo recording at 45RPM. Original Cover.
LINER NOTES
The Canton Mambo project began as research in 2018, an exploration of archives, sounds, and stories that spoke across oceans. It has since grown into nights of dancing and, now, recordings that seek to honor tradition while venturing into new terrain. This record presents two chapters in that journey: Canton Mambo and Lotus.
Together, these works represent more than just a pairing; they are milestones in an evolving narrative. With each note, Canton Mambo draws nearer to its soul - where cultures intersect, traditions transform, and music serves as the bridge between the past and the future.
Above all, this is for the community we've created together, a family that holds a special place in my heart.
Con mucho amor,
Gia Fu
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Special Thanks to:
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Ángel Meléndez - for bringing the vision to life with your unwavering support, guidance, and love
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Cecilia Chan - for being the most inspiring GuZheng teacher
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Moshup - for capturing my performance in Hong Kong
In loving memory of my Shi-fu, 陳老師 (R.I.P)
And to everyone who has shared in this journey, thank you for listening and for keeping the music alive.
Side A - Canton Mambo
Composer: Angel Meléndez
Arranger: Angel Meléndez
GuZheng: Gia Fu
Piano: Adan Perez
Flute: Floro Serenade Jr
Congas: Bobby Allende
Bongó: Ray Colon
Timbales: Marcos Lopez
Bass: Ruben Rodriguez
Trombones: Juanga Lakunza, Michael Pallas
Mixing Engineer: Javier Raez
Mastering Engineer: German Landaeta
Side B - Lotus
Music, Lyrics & Chorus: Gia Fu
Special guests...
Timbales: Nicky Marrero
Piano, keyboards, horn arrangements: Ricky Gonzalez
Trumpets: Maneco Ruiz
Trombones: Willie Alvarez
Additional instruments: The Fusionaires
Chinese folkloric reference: Song of Midu Mountain (Yunnan)
Mixed by: Bayron Ramos, Ricky Gonzalez & Gia Fu
Mastered by: German Landaeta
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Gia Fu
© 2025