

		RADIOVINILEMANIA recommends

Latin Expression, a.k.a. Expresión Latina, is not new in the salsa circuit -- this awesome orchestra has paid its dues. Created in Seattle in May of 1986 by composer/vocalist Francisco “Papo” Medina Sr., combined with his son, Jr. Medina, Ted Bowden, and Dennis Haldane -- all still active members in the group '" along with several other local talented musicians, Papo’s dream orchestra was born. Today this 13-piece ensemble is comprised of 4 vocalists, 4 horns, plus a 5 piece rhythm and percussion section, making Latin Expression a powerhouse orchestra of Latin music that has performed from Canada to Los Angeles, packing clubs and filling dance floors as well as delighting festival crowds. Their repertoire includes rhythms from around the Caribbean including, salsa, cumbia, Afro-Cuban, as well as what they call “power-salsa”. In 1997, Papo Medina and the rest of the band released their debut CD titled Realidad on the Tocolo Música label. The CD which was nominated for a NAMA award, featured eight original compositions including fan favorites Realidad and Alejate. 2005 brought the release of the highly anticipated production entitled 9 Días de Rumba, which was recorded in Medellín, Colombia. Produced by Papo Medina, music arranged and directed by Orlando Libreros and featuring special guest performances by Diego and Jaimé Galé who inject the perfect amount of Columbian flavor into this majestic force of Puerto Rican salsa. This album which includes 11 tunes was designed for both the dancers and salsa lovers alike. Latin Expression was once described as “the Northwest’s best kept salsa secret”... a secret no more. With the international release of 9 Días de Rumba the secret is out