Oriente
Oriente Formed in 1993 by Cuban-born guitarist Egidio Balzola, Oriente's unique sound was quickly conceived through the fusion of Balzola's deep Afro-Cuban roots with Blues, Jazz and Brazilian influences. In 1994 the band's style attracted New Orleans musicians and world class audiences at famed Snug Harbor Jazz Club and around town including Loyola & Tulane Universities. It was here they felt at home and took advantage of that fertile ground to develop Oriente's signature sound. Bandmembers have played and recorded with among others Mongo Santamaria, Babatunde Olatunji, Cachao, Jaco Pastorius, Patato Valdes, Celia Cruz, Habana Sax Quartet, Jimmy Riley, Willie Stewart (Third World), Yma Sumac, David Byrne, George Porter Jr...