First Impressions

Mambo Negro is a seven member musical group composed of vibraphone, bass, guitar, piano, drums/timbales, congas,and bongos. The unique sound of the band derives from the integration of guitar and trap drums into the traditional latin-jazz ensemble. The result is a rich and textured mix of Jazz, Afro-Cuban, Brazilian, Funk and other styles. Although the sound is fresh and much of the material is original (as are all of the songs on the 'First Impressions CD), emphasis is also placed on classic songs and melodies from composers such as Noro Morales, Tito Puente, Thelonius Monk, Miles Davis and Rogers and Hammerstein. The band's approach to this music emphasizes a melodic, acoustical style rather than the synthetic, heavily processed sound which is so prevalent in much of today's music. As there is a wealth of musical experience within the group, some of the members may be familiar to listeners such as keyboardist Joe Mannozzi (Tipica 73, Libre) and vibraphonist George Rodriguez (New Swing Sextet, Joe Cuba). The band has also had the honor of performing with guest artists Dave Valentin, Harvie S, Victor Venegas and others. Mambo Negro has performed at the Panasonic Jazz Festival, Flushing Town Hall, the Paniagua Tropical Music Festival and other New York area venues including Trumpets, Sweet Basil, and Kavehaz. The band has performed on the television shows 'First Impressions' and 'Latin-Jazz Alive and Kickin'' and also on the soundtrack of the film 'Tumba & Tumbao'. Mambo Negro Charles Alletto - Guitar, Tres Glen James Lowe - Drums, Timbales, Hand Perc. Joe Mannozzi - Keyboards Hector Ortiz - Bongos, Timbales, Hand Perc. Frank Reyes - Congas George Rodriguez - Vibes, Hand Perc. Richie Sanquintin - Acoustic Bass Special Guests Al Acosta - Flute Luis Antonio Cruz - Guiro, Hand Perc. To book Mambo Negro contact Glen J. Lowe at (347)453-4069 or mambonegro@optonline.net.