Africanival 2025: Artist Profiling – Montuno West 🎶

🎶 Africanival 2025: Artist Profiling – Montuno West 🎶
📅 Mark your calendars: Africanival returns June 6-8, 2025!

Meet Montuno West, an Alberta-based band that takes audiences on an exhilarating musical journey through the vibrant rhythms of Afro-Cuban folklore, Latin-Jazz, and global music styles. Known for their infectious energy and masterful blend of traditional and modern sounds, Montuno West delivers performances that are fresh, soulful, and unforgettable.

Their talent and dedication to their craft have earned them significant recognition. In 2019, Montuno West won the Calgary Music Award for World Recording of the Year and was nominated for a Western Canadian Music Award in the World category. Their music continues to resonate with fans across Canada and beyond.

Adding to their dynamic sound is the exceptional Israel “Toto” Berriel (Vancouver/Cuba), an Afro-Cuban percussionist, vocalist, and educator. With 12 years of experience performing with the legendary Rumba group Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, Toto has mastered the Afro-Cuban repertoire and is equally at home with jazz, soul, and funk. His vibrant energy, distinctive vocals, and profound connection to tradition make him a standout artist and an incredible addition to Montuno West.

The band’s stellar lineup includes Chris Andrew on piano, Rubim de Toledo on bass, Raul Tabera on percussion, and Luis Tovar on drums. Together, they create an electrifying musical experience that celebrates cultural storytelling through intricate rhythms and innovative melodies.
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