Orquesta Akokán is a Latin jazz ensemble formed by musicians from Cuba and New York, United States. It takes inspiration from mid-twentieth century mambo musicians such as Perez Prado, Beny Moré, and Machito.Feature: Orquesta Akokan. London Jazz News, July 5, 2017.
History The ensemble's name comes from the Yoruban word for "from the heart".Biography at AllMusic It began as a collaboration between arranger Michael Eckroth, producer Jacob Plasse, and vocalist Jose "Pepito" Gomez. They took a trip to Cuba together to record in the style of mid-century Cuban band music, and put an ensemble together during a trip to Havana with the help of Cesar Lopez of the group Irakere. The group signed to Daptone Records in 2018, releasing a 7" single with the label and then a self-titled full-length that year.Review, Record Collector The album was nominated for a Grammy Award.Orquesta Akokán combine a brassy big-band feel with the dynamics of Cuban music. Chicago Reader, October 19, 2021 In 2021, they recorded and released a second album, 16 Rayos.Review, AllMusic
Discography Orquesta Akokán (Daptone Records, 2018) 16 Rayos (Daptone, 2021) Caracoles (Daptone, 2024) América! (Daptone, 2026)
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