Ray Obiedo Latin Jazz Ensemble

Grammy Award-winning guitarist Ray Obiedo brings four decades of Bay Area jazz fusion mastery to The Sound Room with his Latin Jazz Ensemble, featuring powerhouse vocalist Lilan Kane. This vibrant, groove-heavy experience seamlessly weaves Latin percussion, jazz harmonies, rock energy, and R&B soul into what audiences describe as an "irresistible fusion."

Obiedo, a Richmond native who toured with Herbie Hancock and collaborated with legends like Pete Escovedo and Sheila E, has established himself as one of contemporary jazz's most versatile guitarists. His solo career spans acclaimed albums including Latin Jazz Project and There Goes That, showcasing his commitment to cross-cultural musical exploration. Kane brings her own impressive credentials, having performed with Carlos Santana and Tower of Power, adding soulful vocals that complete the ensemble's sophisticated musical tapestry.

Expect electrifying live performances characterized by virtuosic improvisation and infectious energy. Recent concert reviews describe Obiedo's groups as delivering "high-energy" shows that keep audiences fully engaged, with the guitarist's intricate solos setting the tone for entire evenings. The ensemble seamlessly transitions between Latin rhythms, East Bay funk grooves, and jazz fusion, creating what one reviewer called "a first class lesson in how to play that good old East Bay groove."

The Latin Jazz Ensemble draws from Obiedo's extensive catalog, featuring compositions that range from cha-cha rhythms to samba numbers, often incorporating traditional Latin percussion alongside contemporary jazz arrangements. The group's cohesion comes from decades of musical relationships, with some members having played together for years, resulting in the kind of intuitive interplay that borders on telepathic.

This isn't just a performance—it's a celebration of the rich diversity within contemporary jazz, showcasing how Bay Area musicians continue to push boundaries while honoring their multicultural roots.