Acetre

Acetre is a folk group from Olivenza in Spain’s Extremadura region. Formed in 1976, it remains active and is regarded as one of the better-known and most experienced groups in the folk scene of Extremadura.

Style and musical character

The group builds its work on the traditional music of Extremadura, using local tunes, rhythmic patterns and melodic ideas as the basis for original compositions. Its music combines instrumental sections with sung material in Castilian Spanish, Portuguese and related dialects. The group’s background in Olivenza, a town shaped by both Spanish and Portuguese culture, is reflected in this bicultural character. Its sound also includes Oriental and African percussion, the Arabic ud and choral arrangements.

Albums and development

Acetre’s seventh album, Dehesario, marks a further development in its work, with a sound that moves beyond conventional folk arrangements. Over time, the group develops from a regional traditional act into one of the more significant names in new Spanish folk music.

Performances

The group appears at major festivals in Spain and has also performed in Germany, Portugal, Switzerland and Cuba.