Mala Fe

Javier Gutierrez, better known as Mala Fe, was born in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. In love with music from a young age, Javier began his daily practice routine of congas and voice at the age of eight. He worked faithfully on his craft, dreaming of the day when he might join his brother's band, La Tropa, a group that specialized in Perico Ripiao, the folkloric precursor to modern day merengue. Gutierrez soon joined up as one of the group's percussionists, who were known for their complex rhythmic breaks. His familiarity with the complex and idiomatic style offered Gutierrez many advantages, and he relocated to Santo Domingo when he was 16, planning to begin his professional career. Already an excellent conguero, it wasn't difficult for Javier to obtain work with merengue groups in the capitol city. His professional debut came a short time later with La Banda Salvaje, and shortly thereafter, Grupo Bongo, with whom he was given his first taste of international touring. It was also during this time that Gutierrez branched out and began to learn piano, composition and various vocal styles. His solo debut album under the moniker Mala Fe was released in 2000. Con Su Loquera (Sony International) hit the charts, peaking at #5 on Billboard's Latin/Salsa charts. Gutierrez and Mala Fe shifted in 2001 to the powerful New York based J&N Records, a leader in merengue and tropical music records. Gutierrez soon established himself as a hero among the NY gay community with his vivacious stage performances and his daring cover of "Pluma Pluma Gay." The bold album cover of his 2006 release Me Liberégarnered much attention, establishing him as one of few artists unemcumbered by a sexually conservative genre. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez, All Music Guide