Aurelio Martinez is a major tradition bearer of Garifuna culture and music, and a cultural ambassador of the Garifuna nation. Aurelio has released six recordings; the first, GARIFUNA SOUL, inspired Afropop Worldwide to name him Newcomer of the Year. Two years later Aurelio took on yet another role as a politician in the Honduran National Congress, becoming the first Garifuna congressman of his region in the country’s history. His most recent album, Lándini, was named to multiple 2014 year-end critics’ lists, including the New York Times Ten Best World Music Albums of 2014. In March 2015, the Garifuna community of New York honored Aurelio with a special musical tribute and concert to celebrate the thirtieth anniversary of his career.