EMIL ROJO
Y
EL SISMO
Latin soul fusion ensemble that weaves together psychedelic sounds and earthy grooves drawn from diverse musical traditions. With original songs and deep cuts reimagined, the music and lyrics seek to find common ground between nostalgia and novelty that will move the audience in more ways than one.
With multigenerational and multicultural members from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Moldova, Dominican Republic, and Chicago, El Sismo’s music is an amalgamation of a wide range of styles such as Cuban Son, Cumbia, Son Jarocho, Samba, Afro-Peruvian, Reggae, Punta, Funk, and Rock.
Emil Rojo y El Sismo are gaining notoriety for themselves through performances ranging from local venues to regional festivals.
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Jose Natal
CONGAS-PERCUSSION
Speciallizing in contemporary, ethnic and folkoric styles of playing blending old and new "flavors" to the group's music. Such as Son, Son Cubano, Punta, Rumba, Bomba, Son Jarocho, Plena, Merenge, Calypso, etc.
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Emil Rojo
VOCALS-GUITAR
Started playing Son Jarocho, with multiple bands since 2016. After his arrival to Chicago, he has been learning folk rhythms from all over Latin America
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Omar Ramirez
VOCALS-KEYBOARDS
Pianist, composer, songwriter and recording artist from the Dominican Republic. Graduated from the Cleveland Institute of Music (CIM) with a degree in Piano Performance. His musical experience ranges from classical to popular music and is deeply influenced by his love of improvisation, jazz, and Dominican folklore.
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Alex Brescanu
BASS
Originally from the Republic of Moldova, studied saxophone at the Moldova State Conservatory and upon arrival to the USA became fascinated with bass and Latin rhythms. Also pursuing a career in cinematography.
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Nathan Staley
DRUMS-PERCUSSION
Has toured and recorded extensively with ensembles playing classical, rock, latin, and free jazz. He holds a bachelor's degree in percussion performance but considers himself primarily a drumkit player.
