Orchestra Mambo International - ¡Apúntalo! (2026) [Hi-Res]

The UK-based Latin big-band Orchestra Mambo International, founded in 2022 by musician Jonny Enright and promoter Lubi Jovanovic, brings together multigenerational performers from the UK, Venezuela, Cuba, and Colombia. Led by 72-year-old Venezuelan vocalist Carlos "Pachanga" Peña, the group's debut album ¡Apúntalo! features guest appearances by Cuban singer Claritzel Miyares and flautist Chip Wickham.

The album ¡Apúntalo! draws inspiration from the 1970s New York Latin scene, incorporating traditions of mambo, salsa, son montuno, guaracha, and Afro-Cuban jazz. The sound relies on authentic batá drums, intricate Tito Puente-style timbales, lush horn arrangements, and vibraphone solos. The lead single Olufina, named after the Yoruba orisha Changó, exemplifies a fusion of danceable rhythms, call-and-response vocals, and a modern energetic drive echoing contemporary UK jazz acts like Ezra Collective.

Tracklist:
1. Orchestra Mambo International - Flauta Pa' Ti (feat. Chip Wickham)
2. Orchestra Mambo International - Yembereque
3. Orchestra Mambo International - So Near, Yet So Far
4. Orchestra Mambo International - Llegó Mi Gente Ya
5. Orchestra Mambo International - Olufina
6. Orchestra Mambo International - Mi Mambo
7. Orchestra Mambo International - Rumba, Ron y Rico Son (feat. Claritzel)
8. Orchestra Mambo International - Yenyere