Bio

Melena & Grupo Iyamile World renown percussionist Melena has put together a fiery new ensemble of top rate musicians. Featuring Melena on all percussion (Conga, Timbales, Bongo, bata and misc. percussion), Grupo Iyamile gives it's own innovative treatment to classic latin and latin jazz tunes as well as exploring new territory with original musical compositions. The ensemble counts on the participation of top “first call” musicians, most of whom are bandleaders in their own right. Grupo Iyamile can be modified to a smaller quintet or quartet configuration. For our East Coast fans, Melena maintains a New York based version of the group for East Coast gigs. Melena also has a local Miami based version of the group. By doing so, she is able to minimize ancillary expenses, maintain booking costs and increase the opportunity for nationwide bookings. Melena also fronts Esencia AfroCubana (Afro-Cuban Essence), a larger group of 11 musicians (including 3 vocalists) that plays a lively blend of Timba, R&B and Latin dance tunes. This groups music can be sampled at several sites, including Melena's website: www.melena.com, her MySpace page: www.myspace.com/melenamusic and www.musicfinity.com/Melena For booking information, please contact: Yamile Music: 818.287.7103 [email protected] or MUSA Management 407.499.4842 [email protected] Att.: R. Ventura-Rosa www.melena.com www.myspace.com/melenamusic