After decades as a percussionist on the Swedish performing arts scene – from folk music to free jazz, contemporary dance and theatre – Juan Romero steps into the spotlight with his first own project: Juan Romero’s Manuella Orkester. Here, rhythm becomes a driving force. A shared language.
Rooted in Caribbean and South American folk traditions, yet wide open to improvisation, Romero and his fellow musicians shape something raw, glowing and alive. This is miles from cocktail jazz. This is music that carries the warmth and rhythm of folk traditions, but with the freedom of improvisation.
The debut album drops this autumn on Supertraditional. First single La Sabrosura lands in June. We can’t wait.
LINEUP
Juan Romero – percussion
Julia Strzalek – saxophone
Alex Zethson – piano, keyboard
Vilhelm Bromander – bass
Pelle Vallgren – drums
