Akolá Tambó

London-based Akolá Tambó is the first traditional bullerengue group in the UK, dedicated to preserving and sharing the ancestral rhythms of this Afro-Colombian music and dance tradition. Bullerengue, originated in the Caribbean coast of Colombia, is a powerful expression of joy and collective memory. With its hypnotic drum patterns, call-and-response chants and lively dance, the genre carries a rich history that the band is committed to honouring and safeguarding.

The group’s name, “Akolá Tambó,” means “remember the drum”, reflecting their mission to reconnect with the roots through the heartbeat of the drum and to plant the seeds of love for Colombia’s traditional music. Their work is grounded in the belief that these ancestral rhythms not only preserve cultural heritage but also foster healing and connection.

Through research, performance, and collaboration, Akolá Tambó cultivates spaces for cultural exchange and dialogue—bridging worlds, honoring tradition, and spotlighting the global resonance of bullerengue, all while preserving its authentic form. They have collaborated with some of the most acclaimed bullerengue practitioners and maestros from the bullerengue tradition in Colombia including Nelda Piña, Alvaro Llerenos (son of Petrona Martínez, the queen of bullerengue), Franklin Tejedor (Lamparita), La Burgos, El Happy, Lukumi, Jose Angel Oviedo and Dely Prem.
Since their formation, Akolá Tambó has performed at notable festivals and venues. Highlights include appearances at Tonnau Festival in Wales, Prende la Vela Festival in Spain, and UK festivals such as Shambala, Wilderness, CASA, and Vortex Jazz Festival, among others. They’ve also graced stages at prestigious London venues like the Barbican Centre and the British Library, and participated at the María la Baja Bullerengue Festival in Colombia, one of the three most important in the country.
Following their debut single, “Solecito,” Akolá Tambó is preparing to release both a studio album and a live album this year. Their work pulses with the call of the drum, bridging past and present to ignite a deep connection to tradition and community that transcends borders and generations.