ALFREDO CALVO CANO

Alfredo Calvo died August 26, 2011, and the world lost a true Afro Cuban folkloric treasure. Alfredo was a priest of Agayu with more than 50 years of Ocha. He was an (if not the) Elder of the Egwado branch of the Santeria religion, of which his aunt, Fermina Gomez (Ocha Bi), is considered the founder. Affectionately known as El Gallo (the Rooster) for his strong, distinctive singing voice, he was one of the most talented and knowledgeable akpwons in Matanzas. He was the owner of the Aña Oba Tola bata drums heard on all Kabiosile’s recordings, and was an accomplished drummer in his own right.

Alfredo was a highly sought-after Oba Oriate (the high priest of the Santeria religion who is in charge of all rituals) and diviner with the dilogun (the cowry shells that serve as mouth for the Orishas).

Alfredo was also tata or high priest of Palo Mayombe. His enormous prenda sits alongside those of his grandfather and great uncle, both slaves from the Congo who brought the secrets of their prendas with them from Africa. He was also Nasaco, the highest level of initiation in the all-male Abakua society.