Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco

This is the sound of Havana at its most electric. Manolito Simonet y su Trabuco deliver a masterclass in modern Cuban music, blending the grit of timba with the refined textures of a charanga orchestra. It is music that feels physically large, propelled by a powerhouse rhythm section and punctuated by sharp, aggressive brass stabs that demand movement.

What sets them apart is the 'Trabuco' itself, a unique instrumentation that includes cello and violin alongside trombones and trumpets. This creates a lush, symphonic depth that you rarely find in standard salsa. The vocalists trade off with a charismatic energy, moving from smooth romantic leads to the rapid-fire call-and-response patterns that define the Cuban street sound.

Start with the album 'Control' or 'Locos por mi Habana'. These records capture the band's peak energy, offering a perfect entry point into their world of complex tumbaos, soaring melodies, and the kind of rhythmic precision that makes them one of the tightest ensembles on the planet.