African Salsa Orchestra

Led by Beninese trombonist and vocalist Michel Pinheiro, African Salsa Orchestra is a ten-piece ensemble that seamlessly connects the dots between the music of Latin America and Africa. With a remarkable musical resumé that includes a stint as bandleader for Tiken Jah Fakoly’s backing band, Pinheiro is joined by French trumpeter Florent Briqué, Cameroonian pianist Patrick Bebey, son of the legendary Francis Bebey, and a whole host of top-tier musicians from all over the world. Despite having formed in 2014, the group spent three years writing and recording what would be their critically-acclaimed 2017 eponymous debut. Featuring socially-conscious lyrics and stellar brass arrangements, courtesy of Briqué and Pinheiro, the album was praised by its melting pot of styles, ranging from Cuban salsa, West African rhythms, gospel, and reggae.