New Cuban Express—which marks Valera’s
sixth record as a leader and a new direction in his playing and writing—consists of eleven Valera originals and two covers, focusing on material derived from the Afro-Cuban tradition.

MANUEL VALERA | Piano, Fender Rhodes, Keyboards
YOSVANY TERRY | Alto and Soprano Saxophone, Chekere
TOM GUARNA | Electric and Acoustic Guitar
JOHN BENITEZ | Bass
ERIC DOOB | Drums
MAURICIO HERRERA | Percussion

the band Manuel Valera and the New Cuban Express is a
project deeply influenced by the experiments of Cuban artists
from the 70s and 80s. While inspired by artists Irakere, Emiliano Salvador and AfroCuba, this working band creates a
unique and distinctive style that mixes elements of Jazz, R&B,
fusion and funk with Cuban music styles.