A Celebration of Cuban Dance Music with Nick Moran – “Talking Timba” w La Combi: Cafe Coda

Nick Moran Presents “Talking Timba” with La Combi – A Celebration of Cuban Dance
Music at Café Coda

In a unique evening blending live performance, education, and irresistible rhythm, bassist and
UW educator Nick Moran presents “Talking Timba” with La Combi featuring Emy Castro
and Juan Tomás Martínez at Café Coda. The two-part event will explore and celebrate the
vibrant world of Cuban timba, a dynamic dance music genre that continues to inspire audiences
worldwide.

The night begins with a performance-lecture led by Moran that dives deep into the role of the
bass in timba’s evolution tracing how the instrument’s rhythmic patterns, tone, and groove have
shaped the genre’s explosive energy since its emergence in Cuba during the 1990s. Joined by
vocalists Emy Castro and Juan Tomás Martínez, along with a powerhouse ensemble of
Madison’s top musicians, Moran will demonstrate the bass’s central voice in driving timba’s
modern sound through a series of live examples and performance.

For the second set, Madison’s own La Combi, featuring Emy Castro and special guests, will
take the stage to keep the energy high and the dance floor full. The group will deliver an eclectic
mix of timba, salsa, bachata, merengue, cumbia promising a night of infectious rhythms and
joyful movement.

Tickets: $20
Venue: Café Coda, 1224 Williamson St, Madison, WI 53703
Date: Friday, December 12, 2025
Time: 8pm-11pm