Jim on timbales has been playing Latin Jazz and Salsa off and on for the past 16 years and has played with local bands such as the exciting salsa group MEZCAL, the Roland Furman Big Band at local venues such as Cafe Sevillas and Ray's Downtown Deli in San Bernardino and his own Jazz quartet. He also played with Bakersfields first Latin Jazz band, Primo. Learning Latin rhythms under the teaching of WAR's renowned percussionist and Toca Percussion endorser, Marcos Reyes, he brings his knowledge and experience to MAMBOP'sexciting rhythm section. The bands exciting horn section consists of a trumpet and tenor saxophone for that full distinctive horn sound that gives this style of jazz its robust flavor.
On trumpet Rana has played in local bands at San Bernardino Community College, Chaffee Community College, and Salsa group Mezcal. His solos and fiery stylings help give Mambop it's unique sound.
On Sax, Bob has performed professionally with many bands and jazz groups. He has also performed with the Manhattan Transfer and Tito Puente. As Director of Jazz studies at CSUSB Bob brings over a decade of experience in teaching instrumental music at the elementary, high school, and university levels.
On Piano Gus Gil brings years of experience playing with numerous bands in both his professional and education career. As director of musical and vocal studies at Chaffey College he has taught and played for over 20 years, including trips to Puerto Rico to study the indigenous musics which are the foundation of Salsa. His depth of professional playing experience allows his keys to sparkle during his exciting solos.
On Congas Mario has played in the southland for over 20 years, having played with local R&B and Latin rock groups as well as known southland musicians such as Joe Rotundi.
Ivan on bass keeps down the bottom end. His bass playing is nothing more than powerful, solid, and full-flavored. Ivan has played with several local pop, jazz and dance bands throughout Southern California.
Leonard on trombone is a powerful presence in the horn section with his intense style and true "Salsa Dura" sensibility. He has played with numerous professional local and touring groups such as Mezcal, Latin Society, Johnny Blas Latin Jazz and Grupo Niche.
Jhoann as our singer brings that essential element to our Salsa performances that evokes the spirit of Gloria Estefan in her interpretations of the Salsa classics.
Other members of the band have and are performing with other local groups around the southland including collectively, the Panorama steel drum band, Mezcal , Primo Latin Jazz band, Chaffee College Latin Jazz Band, and the Roland Furman Big Band.Myspace Layouts