Following his Latin Grammy nomination in the category “Best Long Form Music Video,” bassist, composer, music producer and filmmaker Matt Geraghty has continued the journey of searching and documenting hidden musical treasures in the Americas, this time on the island of Puerto Rico.
“Just Play Puerto Rico,” a musical documentary series, now brings together women artists to share their stories of struggle, music and culture. The documentary titled “Guerreras Puertorriquenas,” captures the spirit of resilience among a group of women percussionists, singers and dancers in the face of natural disasters, political upheaval and a pandemic.
“When I look at how artists are reinventing themselves this past year in light of so many challenges, there’s probably no more inspiring example to me than the artists from Puerto Rico. We wanted to spotlight their drive, creativity and determination. Our documentary focuses on traditional roots music while providing a space for emerging talent on the scene. This continues Just Play’s mission to create a platform for voices and greater visibility for artists in the Americas.” said Geraghty.
At the heart of the new release is a community of talented women artists represented by the Puerto Rican Bomba scene in Loiza, the music from the west coast and the styles of reggae, jazz and hip-hop. Just Play Puerto Rico features a roster of renowned Puerto Rican singers, dancers and musicians, including Grupo Folclórico Belelé, Dali Marie, Tanicha Lopez, Maribella Burgos and Nelie Lebrón.
This production reveals the diversity of the talent on the island with the breathtaking backdrop of the natural landscapes of Puerto Rico.
With a collective of more than 300 musicians, “Just Play” was created in 2013 by Geraghty and is produced by Araceli Poma. “Just Play” provides a platform for the music of the African diaspora, bringing its musical roots and traditions into the eyes of the world.
The documentary can be viewed at https://vimeo.com/ondemand/guerreraspuertorriquenas. The cost is $14.99. For more information, go to www.justplay.world.
