Javier Gutierrez Massó piano · Jose Carlos Sanchez drums · Reiner Elizarde Ruano bass
Javier Massó, known as Caramelo de Cuba, is a Cuban Latin jazz pianist and composer with great international prestige. His work with his trio stands out for its carefully crafted blend of Cuban tradition and modern jazz language.
The Caramelo trio project (piano, double bass and drums) focuses on reinterpreting Cuban music through contemporary jazz. It is not simply traditional music: it is a sophisticated fusion that combines Afro-Cuban rhythms (son, danzón, mambo), jazz improvisation in the style of classic trios, and European classical influence, especially in the piano.
The trio is characterized by a highly expressive and technical piano style, with Caramelo taking a leading role, constant dialogue between the musicians with extensive improvisation, and a balance between rhythmic energy and more lyrical moments.
Their music can move from highly rhythmic and danceable passages to more intimate and melodic ones within the same piece.
Caramelo de Cuba has been key in the dissemination of Latin jazz, especially following his career in Spain. He has collaborated with top-level artists and his trio represents one of the purest ways of understanding modern Latin jazz.
Caramelo de Cuba trio is an elegant and virtuosic fusion between Cuban musical tradition and contemporary jazz, with a strong emphasis on piano and improvisation.
