Locos Por Juana is a GRAMMY and Latin GRAMMY nominated bilingual band, most notably
recognized for their energetic live performances and unique fusion of Latin, Caribbean,
and American rhythms. The band was formed in Miami, FL in 2000. The band consists of
vocalist Itawe Correa, guitarist Mark Kondrat and drummer Javier Delgado, which form
the nucleus of the group, joined by trombonist Lasim Richards and percussionist Carlos
Palmet. At times there are as many as five to seven guest musicians that join the band
onstage for shows and tours.
Locos Por Juana’s sound is a distinct one, a hybrid drawing not only from the band
members' diverse backgrounds but also from other countries' musical styles as well.
Correa and Delgado were born in Colombia, and Kondrat is a Miami native of Colombian
descent. As such, they incorporate the beloved sounds of their heritage and upbringing
like Cumbia, Champeta and Afro-Colombian rhythms such as Mapale and Chande,
reshaping and breathing new life into them in order to give them a new identity
altogether. Also integral to Locos Por Juana's style are musical influences from Miami
and the Caribbean islands including Reggae, Raggamuffin, and Dub from Jamaica along
with Hip-Hop, Rock, and Funk leading to fusion that Kondrat coined "that island swing".
In essence, the heart and soul of the band’s style emanates from Colombia, a country
whose musical styles are ever-present in band’s music.