Poncho Sanchez & His Latin Jazz Band Performing Live at the Belly Up Tavern
Grammy Award-winning percussionist and bandleader, Poncho Sanchez, is set to release a new live album on March 28, 2025. Entitled “Poncho Sanchez & His Latin Jazz Band Live at the Belly Up Tavern,” this album captures a unique performance at the beloved Southern California venue. This will mark the 31st album release of his illustrious career, showcasing ten songs recorded live at the Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, California.
Sanchez, known for his vibrant rhythms and sonic storytelling, made the decision to record this album at the Belly Up Tavern, which has recently been upgraded for pristine audio and video capturing. This special performance features a selection of Latin jazz standards, deep cuts, and familiar repertoire from Sanchez’s extensive catalog. Since the 1980s, when he began leading ensembles under his own name, Sanchez has upheld a collaborative approach with his band members, who bring new songs or arrangements to the table for collective refinement.
One of the highlights of the new album is the fresh arrangement of a Freddie Hubbard original titled “A Bientot,” crafted by Sanchez’s trumpet player, Ron Blake. This rendition, featuring a cha-cha feel typical of Sanchez’s signature style, showcases the band’s creativity and commitment to innovative interpretations. Another standout track is “Poncho’s Beat,” a mambo based on “Monguito’s Theme,” paying homage to Mongo Santamaria, one of Sanchez’s heroes and mentors.
The album also includes reimagined versions of classic Latin jazz tunes such as “Sabor, Sabor” from the 1968 Fania All Stars record “Live at the Red Garter, Vol. 1.” Sanchez’s ability to breathe new life into these iconic tracks demonstrates his deep connection to the musical traditions that have influenced him throughout his career. Songs like “Llegué” and “Night Dream” further showcase Sanchez’s dedication to celebrating the rich heritage of Afro-Cuban music.
In addition to showcasing the creative talents of his band members, Sanchez also pays tribute to his own musical roots with a medley of three original compositions entitled “Poncho in the One Ways.” This medley highlights his uptempo mambo work, adding a dynamic element to the album’s tracklist. The decision to record at the Belly Up Tavern was a deliberate one, chosen for its central location and its significance as a venue that feels like home to Sanchez and his band.
Sanchez’s distinguished career, marked by collaborations with legendary figures in Latin jazz and a Grammy win for Best Latin Album, reflects his enduring impact on the music world. His commitment to preserving and evolving traditional Latin jazz sounds shines through on this new live album, offering audiences a captivating glimpse into the magic created by Poncho Sanchez & His Latin Jazz Band.