2008 October YA Salsa Social Bands Profile

Grupo Escobar
Grupo Escobar is one of Detroits hottest latin bands and a favorite with Salseros. Playing their own distinctive form of Cuban Salsa infused with many other styles including Jazz, Blues, Middle Eastern and tropical rhythms, this 11 piece band is known for their engaging high energy performances. Lead singer and director Steve Jarosz and his band (several of whom are top dancers in their own right) offer one of the most unique and fun dance experiences and are guaranteed to impress with their musicality, versatility and the joy they bring to the music.

Check out their myspace page at at www.myspace.com/grupoescobar

Grupo Escobar at Sangria in Royal Oak

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Combo Tropical
Salsa just doesn’t get any better when it’s RAW and this is what this band is all about. Although the band is newly formed, its players are not new to Salsa. Each member brings in years of musical background, experience and attitude. And when they decided to form this new group, it didn’t take them long to feel each other out and discover their true calling…… Salsa for dancers!

This band consists of the usual elements of any Latin Band. Starting with Freddie Aponte on the Timbales, Ignacio Miranda on the Bass, Reinaldo Santiago on the Congas/Bongos, and Bertin on the Vocal, but the real treat of this band is none other than Lorain Ohio’s best kept secret Orlando “El Mostro” Santiago playing the Cuatro.

El Mostro is no stranger to the musicians of El Gran Combo, Sonora Poncena, Yomo Toro, Richie Ray, to name a few. His genius talent on the Cuatro has been recognized by many musicians worldwide, and still surprises many when he shares the stage with so many recognize artists. But lately his passion has been watching the dancers simply take pleasure listening to his solos and taking aim on the dance floor. You will be surprise to know that Hard Salsa comes from Hard players. Combo Tropical will cater to those Hard needs.

Combo Tropical Live @ Touch 10-18-08