Saturday night in Cuba, doesn’t get more atomic than this.  Los Van Van, the most celebrated and influential orchestra in the history of Cuban music, are playing at the sexy Salon Roja, a classy joint in downtown Havana, which still holds all its 1950s glamour and charm.  The pulsating atmosphere is intoxicating to the senses and the crowd are dancing and singing along to every word.  After 3 weeks in Havana and having heard over 10 Cuban salsa bands playing at world class levels, I am struck by the extra quality of the sound production and the pure, unique musical genius that is Los Van Van.  The spirit of everyone present is uplifted onto another level.

At the end of the night, Samuel Formell,  the percussionist and Musical Director, displays his virtuosity in a solo that excels beyond time or rhythm.  Where he goes when he is playing at these moments, only God knows, but wherever he is, the crowd are there with him, embodying every second of every beat.  His father, Juan Formell, the most important figure in the history of Cuban music can be proud…..

To read more of this interview with Samuel, click here >>