Rafael Padilla

As an introduction to Rafael Padilla, we might look to the expression that life, as is great art, distinguished by attention to detail. Rafael Padilla knows about details; they are his stock and trade. As testimony, he created a signature set of Toca bongos, sized slightly smaller in diameter than regular bongos, capable of generating crisp highs without sacrificing low frequencies. They are also especially comfortable for long periods of playing. This is significant if only for the fact that bongos are often neglected in favor of congas in contemporary music. Yet bongos offer an articulate voice that better expresses the detailed "inner rhythms" that can make or break a studio track. Look back to Al Jarreau's album All Fly Home for stunning evidence. We'll wager that Rafael Padilla has woodshedded that one as part of his extensive homework.

Known as a long time member of the Chris Isaak organization, in which dynamics span pianissimo to forte within a single song, Rafael must create intricate percussion beds and contrapuntal parts that augment the rich sonic tapestry without intruding. At this, Rafael is a master.

Of course, he is fully capable of firing on all eight cylinders when motoring behind Celine Dion, Gloria Estefan, John Secada, Shakira, Babyface and Annie Lennox. The power is there. But he can turn on cruise control with Michael Bublé or Carol King. And live he plays all indigenous percussion instruments with modern flare.

Rafael Padilla has gigged and recorded for years in the Southern California band One World, alongside Eric Marienthal, Frank Unzueta, and Mitchell Chavez. The band mixes Mexican traditional styles with Latin and pop/funk influences.

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