Larry and Joe Duo

From Monagas, Venezuela, Larry is renowned in the world of llanera music. Joe, hailing from North Carolina, is a GRAMMY-nominated bluegrass and oldtime musician. Facing challenges, Larry sought asylum in North Carolina. Meanwhile, after spending ten years in South America, Joe was unexpectedly held back in his homeland by the pandemic. To make ends meet, Larry took up construction work. As Joe’s famous band, Che Apalache, faced obstacles, he shifted his focus to helping asylum seekers.

Now both are settled in the North Carolina Triangle, they’re accomplished multi-instrumentalists with a passion for transcending musical boundaries. Together, they meld Venezuelan folklore with Appalachian sounds, showcasing instruments like the harp, banjo, cuatro, and violin. Their unique blend is not just a testament to their diverse backgrounds but also a story of how music intertwines with social movements.