El Gran Combo visits…

This Saturday, December 15th, the iconic El Gran Combo visits the San Francisco Bay Area celebrating their 50th Anniversary at Cafe Cocomo.  This group that was created by members of Rafael Cortijo’s orquesta back in 1962 brings their trademark sound that has launched a galaxy of hits throughout their illustrious career.  Their leader, pianist/musical director Rafael Ithier will conduct the Combo but has stopped performing live as their pianist a number of years ago (the esteemed pianist/producer Willie Sotelo has taken Ithier’s place in live performance).  Their front line of vocalists Charlie Aponte, Jerry Rivas (who took over Andy Montanez’s place back in the 70’s) and Papo Rosario have been performing as a team since that time.  The band has always been a tight unit who performs with precision, style and fire.  This is the classic Rolls Royce of Salsa from Puerto Rico but always with the love and heart of their public fueling this classic hit making machine.