On October 10, 2016, Cuban drummer Francisco Mela will join a visionary ensemble representing the first-ever collaboration between legendary Afro-Cuban pianist Chucho Valdés and acclaimed tenor saxophonist Joe Lovano. The group, which includes Chucho Valdés (piano), Joe Lovano (saxophone), Gaston Joya (bass), Francisco Mela (drums) and Yaroldi Abreu Robles (percussion), will tour throughout Europe before returning to North America for several performances within the United States and Canada.
In September, Mela performed with the McCoy Tyner Trio in front of a sold-out theater for Jazz a la Villette in Paris, France. The concert honored Tyner’s musical genius and featured pianists Geri Allen and Craig Taborn who played in his honor. Click here to watch their performance: http://bit.ly/ArteConcert
Earlier this year, Mela released his fourth album as a leader entitled FE. The recording showcases The Crash Trio consisting of Gerald Cannon (bass) and Leo Genovese (piano), with special guest, renowned guitarist John Scofield. Response to the album has been remarkably positive, and the group is planning appearances in the coming months and throughout 2017.
For more information visit: http://www.franciscomela.com
