Fusion. Afrocuba was created in 1977. The original director was the saxophonist Nicolas Reinoso and the band’s musicians had the idea of mixing together Cuban roots music with jazz fusion to generate powerful innovations. Afrocuba´s original cast involved the brothers Carlos Acosta and Fernando Acosta, in the saxophone section and as composers too; René Luis Toledo, guitar; Ángel Luis López, bass- guitar; Ernán López-Nussa, pianist; Tony Valdés, drums; Mario Luis Pino, percussionist; Anselmo Febles, percussion and vocal, and the trumpeter Roberto García. About one year after its foundation, Afrocuba obtained the prestigious 1st Prize in UNEAC (National Association of Cuban Writers and Artists) Contest. After Reynoso's departure, the band was reorganized under the leadership of keyboardist/flautist Oriente López, who continued to cultivate the Cuban-jazz-fusion. In 1992 the group started a new era with new musicians and the old-timers Mario Luis Pino and Roberto García, who becam e the bandleader. Afrocuba´s recordings include titles like Mazamorra, Dile que vuelvo, Eclipse de sol, Sobrevolando, Acontecer and Rey Arco Iris. They also realized some albums and tours in Cuba and abroad accompanying the troubadour Silvio Rodríguez. They toured different countries in Europe, Asia and America. Afrocuba was an outstanding Cuban band with a singular sound accomplished by powerful brass and percussive sections.
