Angel Melendez’ 911 Mambo Orchestra is a band of many bands. Confusing? Not really. Angel‘s band can change from a smaller 7 piece to a 20 piece orchestra as the occasion calls for. I have seen Angel do it many times before. On one occasion you will see the full size orchestra playing Tito Puente and on another see a much smaller Combo with 2 horns. Angel typically declares the theme of the night based on the size of the group he brings along for the date. One of my personal favorites is his “Tribute to Hector Lavoe.” On Monday, May 28th 2012, Angel brought his “Tribute to Hector Lavoe” to the Navy Pier Beer Garden for a free outdoor concert. The group was hot evidenced by the crowded dance floor. This is not unusual as Angel’s band usually attracts large numbers of salsa dancers. The stage was set at the end of the pier surrounded by beautiful scenery of clear skies and numerous boats in the water. On the pier was a healthy crowd of people enjoying an occasion of outdoor salsa.
Angel, who plays trombone partnered with Frankie Rodriguez - a Chicago salsa trombonist who is a veteran of many salsa bands over the years. Together they blended perfectly replicating the old Willie Colon sound that brought you back to the days when salsa dominated the scene. Angel and Frankie played in sync creating a musical blend that moved your soul. Dancers lip sung the words to the popular songs as they spun around tipping their partners as spectators stood by enjoying the groove. Angel’s vocalist did a tremendous job replicating the savvy lyrics that made Hector Lavoe so unique. All in all it was a great time. Angel, I tip my hat to you and this smaller group. You brought me back to a different time when bands like this were plentiful. It was a great experience.
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