Salsabrosa

SALSABROSA was born in January of 2005 when top Minneapolis musicians led by Cesar "Chico" Chavez (cajon), Robert Schneeweis (piano), Tim Owen (timbales), and Abiola Lepe(vocals) decided to form a band that would inject new energy into the local salsa scene. Later that year, other excellent local musicians Andrew Turpening (timbales) and David Marden (sax) joined the group, as well as Eric Wangensteen (trumpet), a member of Bette Midler's touring band, who added his soulful presence to Salsabrosa. In January of 2006, Cuban percussionist/vocalist Frank Rivery sat in with the group at La Bodega after recently arriving from the Dominican Republic. Jaws dropped as Rivery unleashed a riveting timbales solo that shook the night. He joined Salsabrosa shortly thereafter, and this launched the band into another musical universe. (Que bola hacere!) Months later, the band was blessed with the inclusion of Grammy and Latin Grammy-nominated Cuban pianist/vocalist Viviana Pintado and Honduran vocal sensation Lidia Berman. Salsabrosa currently performs at many Latin-themed restaurants and clubs in the Twin Cities, and is a favorite group for weddings, corporate events, and diversity fairs in the Midwest. Come experience the Latin passion of Salsabrosa!