On July 19, Sergent Garcia introduced Stern Grove to Salsamuffin, a brand of music that can only be described as a rich blend of the traditions of reggae and salsa with infusions of urban and hip hop beats. Bruno “Sergent” Garcia has been pioneering innovation of this style in venues worldwide since 1997. An already well known musician in the cult punk rock scene, as a guitarist for Ludwig Von 88, Sergent’s passion for Cuban and Jamaican cultures led him to experiment with mixing the sharp sounds of urban hip hop with raw accompaniments, featuring brass, flutes, and heavy percussion. The result is explosive.

Sergent, a nickname earned in grade school, was born into a French home with roots in Spain and Africa, exposing him to a wide range of sounds, cultures, and influences. His albums represent not only his own ancestry, but those of all the cities he’s toured throughout his career. After hearing a call for tributes to his Salsamania, a favorite radio show, Sergent’s universal and passion filled entry won the ears of listeners. Hit singles incorporate festive, dance inducing beats, borrowing funk, afrobeat, and cumbia rhythms. His signature songs “Jumpi” and “Revolucion” pulled the Grove audience to their feet.

Mascaras, Sergent’s fifth record, is a product of a collection of experiences in urban settings. Sergent’s ultimate goal with his fusions is a world without borders, holding the belief that there is a “‘big town’ sound that’s part of a worldwide, universal wave,” something anyone can relate to. The prose on his latest album addresses all aspects of life, love in “Dulce con Chile,” challenging politics in “Guantanamo City,” and blending of cultures in “Long Time,” sung half in Spanish, half in French.

Sergent’s style and influences are constantly evolving as his musical presence grows worldwide, exemplified by an uproarious performance for Grove patrons this summer.