Latin Jazz Under the Stars w/ José Rizo's “Mongorama”

Summer Evening Tribute to Mongo Santamaría; Dance if the Spirit moves you!

The Jazz Bakery is really excited to co-present this summer evening event with food and dancing under the stars in the perfect setting at La Plaza de Cultura y Artes.

JOSÉ RIZO’s Grammy-winning Mongorama is no ordinary band. It pays tribute to Mongo Santamaría and his bandmates. The essence of the rhythm and infectious “danceability” of the music pleases both the listeners (jazz and Latin music fans) and the dancers. Mongorama proudly follows in the footsteps of maestro Santamaría. His composition “Afro Blue” (especially John Coltrane's incendiary interpretation of the song), and Herbie Hancock's “Watermelon Man,” are just a part of the opulent legacy of Mongo Santamaría

In Mongorama – José Rizo’s rich 11-piece ensemble arrangements blend virile vocals with fiery harmonic flavors of tenor saxophone, flute and violin over a cooking Latin rhythm section. The result is a thrilling opportunity to reconnect with an irresistible, fresh, modern take on this glorious period of charanga music!

Rizo has spent his extensive career working in the Latin jazz world  both as a performer and a radio personality. His show Jazz on the Latin Side is a cornerstone of KJAZZ programming. His big band, Jazz on the Latin Side All-Stars, includes many individual Grammy Award winners. They have been a Los Angeles go-to favorite for years. This Grammy Award-winning current project celebrating Mongo Santamaría’s music is more proof of José Rizo’s insight and taste.  This concert is sponsored by a grant from the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.