The John Santos Sextet, featuring some of the Bay Area's finest musicians, blends the musical traditions of Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the Afro-Caribbean diaspora with cutting-edge jazz improvisation creating a sound that is as rewarding to the ear as it is irresistible to the body. Tonight's CD release celebration for Filosofía Caribeña Vol 1 presents material illuminating Afro-Latino identity, and the Creole culture that emanates from the Caribbean heart of the Americas, where Spanish-speaking communities have directly integrated African culture in myriad forms.

A charismatic bandleader, captivating improviser, dedicated educator, and five-time Grammy Award nominee, multi-percussionist John Santos is a master of folkloric traditions from Cuba and Puerto Rico consistently finding distinctive ways to merge Latin grooves with jazz orchestration. John became an international force with his talent-laden Machete Ensemble, a band that collaborated with legendary players from Cuba, Puerto Rico, and the United States. In recent years, John has focused on writing and arranging for his sextet, the exceptional combo with whom he performs tonight, featuring flutist/pianist John Calloway, Melecio Magdaluy on saxophone and flute, Saul Sierra on bass, Marco Diaz on piano and trumpet, and drummer David Flores. Make sure you check it out!

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Listen to a track from John Santos: