 Los Angeles - Orquesta Aragon, formed in 1939 by double bass player Orestes Aragon Cantero, quickly became recognized as the quintessential charanga ensemble by combining Latin swing and African beats with European influenced melodies anchored by lush washes of violin and flute. As the group continued to evolve, Orquesta Aragon would also become master's of danzon, cha-cha-cha, son, rumba and guaracha. Performing a repertoire for dancing, from truly romantic slow numbers to exciting floor burners. Orquesta Aragon's Afro-Latin innovations would shape the evolution of Cuban music for decades to come. The newly released album, titled En Route, is the group's debut on the new world music label, World Village. As the latest in a string of many milestones, this album further cements the group's legendary status with 14 tracks that reflect a near complete musical history of their pioneering style. In a review of a New York performance before a roaring full house at Symphony Space, Don Palmer reported for Jazziz, "Most amazing about Orquesta Aragon was its ability to incorporate years of musical transition into a trance-like set. African rhythms were present, as was the tenderness of romantic balladry and the energy of salsa." In another review for the Los Angeles Times, Ernesto Lechner described the group's previous LA performance as "superbÖmade you feel suspended in time, lost in the sweet innocence of 'Me Voy Para La Luna,' and the nostalgic, four part vocal harmonies of the bolero 'Nosotros.' With the visibly moved audience chanting along, the favorite, 'El Bodaguero' sounded vital and timeless." Music from En Route, along with Orquesta Aragon classics will be heard live during the group's only Los Angeles performance on Friday November 9, 2001 at Sportsmen's Lodge, located at 4234 Coldwater Canyon, Studio City, CA. This presentation by Orquesta Aragon is being produced by the #1 promoter of Latin Music on the West Coast, Albert Torres Productions. Doors open at 8:30pm with a dance lesson and the band performing two sets of music highlighting their illustrious career at 10:00pm & 12:00am. Tickets for this event are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. For table reservation or tickets call, 310 450 8770.
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