Orishas Plays to Its Strengths: Clever Rhymes, High Energy

When the European-based Cuban rap collective known as Orishas performed in Los Angeles for the first time a few months ago, some were disappointed by the group’s inability to capture on stage the sophisticated textures of its debut album, “A Lo Cubano.”

The collection is, indeed, a tough act to follow live. One of those magical records that manages to land on the scene at the right time, “Cubano” merges the seemingly incompatible worlds of hip-hop and traditional Cuban rumba into one irresistible package.

Returning to the Conga Room on Friday, Orishas (now a trio following the departure of Flaco-Pro) demonstrated in a refreshingly uncomplicated performance that if their concerts fail somehow to reproduce the richness of “A Lo Cubano,” at least they are a lot of fun.

Beginning with a recorded sonic collage of Cuban oldies that paid respect to past masters such as Orquesta Aragon and Los Van Van, rappers Yotuel and Ruzzo and singer Roldan showed the capacity audience that an arsenal of witty rhymes coupled with good energy are enough to inspire and entertain.

The trio was accompanied by an adequate percussionist and a DJ who experienced technical problems. But the spotlight stayed firmly planted on the vocalists and the good-natured bravado that fueled funky jams such as “Atrevido” and “Represent.”