New Delhi, April 20 -- Every Monday night in the Uruguayan capital of Montevideo, hundreds gather around a table in a public square, drawn by the pulse of drums, guitars and voices carrying aloft a centuries-old rhythm.

La Rueda de Candombe began as a casual jam session between friends, but has rapidly evolved into one of Uruguay's most talked-about musical events, going from local street corners in the capital to the Cannes Film Festival.

"What started as something among friends became visible without us intending it," said Uruguayan producer Caleb Amado, one of the founders of La Rueda de Candombe.

Sunday's gathering featured this season's final performance of Rueda de Candombe at Montevideo's Plaza de España, bringing together ...