Inti-Illimani goes out with a bang

The audience was chanting “Toca,” meaning ‘play’ in Spanish, over and over as Chilean flags were raised throughout the audience. This was the scene as Inti-Illimani came out for its third standing ovation at the Quick Center this past Friday night. The Chilean music group finished its 40th Anniversary Tour to a not-so-packed but very passionate crowd, comprised of Spanish majors required to attend, Fairfield locals and a few faithful fans.

What started as passive performance quickly became very exciting as the audience began to clap along with the eight members of Illimani playing their world famous, folk, pop songs. Their performance was a musical journey around the world, with songs influenced by music from Brazil, the Caribbean, Mexico, Italy and Chile. It was difficult not to get swept away by the poetic melodies and exotic beats.

As the group played with a passion that emanated from the stage, it was hard to believe that Illimani has been touring for 40 years and has created over 400 songs. With such a huge reputation and following, Illimani seemed completely unaffected by its success, playing together casually as if there were no audience.

Throughout the performance Jorge Coulon, one of the group’s founding members, joked with the audience.

“We were worried about the invasion of English culture; 40 years later everyone in the U.S. speaks Spanish,” said Coulon. “For those of you who don’t, we will reach out to the minority.”

Though many in the audience did not speak Spanish, it didn’t matter; Illimani’s raw talent crossed over all language barriers. Like a wardrobe change for an actor, the members of Illimani seamlessly changed instruments. In the blink of an eye, one member went from playing saxophone to playing guitar. One of the younger members, Christian Gonz Lez, played eight different instruments effortlessly throughout the show.

With a variety sounds and beats from song to song, one cannot predict where Illimani’s music will go in the future. Regardless of what direction the group goes, there will be no shortage of fans. If the Quick Center audience was a sign, people are not yet ready to say goodbye to Illimani.