Born in the East Bronx (of Peruvian-Puerto Rican ancestry) percussionist Ray Mantilla has performed and/or recorded with innumerable jazz and Latin artists (Dizzy Gillespie, Miguelito Valdés, Art Blakey, Billy Taylor, Machito, Charles Mingus, Freddie Hubbard, Sonny Stitt, Tito Rodríguez, Noro Morales, Max Roach, Tito Puente), in addition to claiming his own discography, most recently on Savant Records. Mantilla gained significant international exposure as the only Hispanic member of the first large contingent of North American musicians invited to perform in Cuba since the early 1960s. The most renowned disciple of Cuban percussionist, Chino Ponzo, Mantilla maintains, "The main thing is to keep the music fresh." And that he does on his latest Savant release featuring his working band along with special guest artist the great Steve Berríos.

Featuring Edy Martinez- piano; Mike Freeman- vibes; Cucho Martinez- bass; Bill Elder- drums; Enrique Fernández- reeds; Special Guest Steve Berríos, percussion.

Tracks: Flying Home; Midnight Sun; Maria Cervantes; For Keeps; Ya No Me Quieres; Blues for Queen D; Camino Al Cielo Too; Namesake; Bari con Bata.

Flying Home

Maria Cervantes

Blues For Queen D

Namesake