THE AFRO-LATIN SOULTET

Biography

The Afro-Latin Soultet, originally known as the Afro Latin Blues Quintet +1, was a band formed in the early 1960s in the Boyle Heights section of East Los Angeles. They were known for their unique blend of Latin soul fusion, which was deeply rooted in the local Barrio culture. The band's early career involved recording several albums under different names, including the Afro-Blues Quintet +1. One of their notable works was the album Afrodesia, recorded between 1968 and 1971, which was later re-released by Ubiquity Records. This album showcases a diverse musical style, incorporating elements of Latin jazz, straight jazz, funk, and rock. Despite its initial lack of commercial success, Afrodesia has become a timeless piece, appreciated for its eclectic mix of genres. The Afro-Latin Soultet's music reflects the vibrant cultural landscape of their time, blending traditional Latin rhythms with modern jazz and experimental sounds. Their legacy lies in their contribution to the evolution of Latin jazz, influencing future generations with their innovative approach to musical fusion. The band's history is also marked by their discovery by producer Jack Millman, who played a crucial role in their early development.

Fun Facts

• The Afro-Latin Soultet's album Afrodesia was not commercially available until its re-release by Ubiquity Records.
• The band's music incorporates a wide range of genres, including Latin jazz, straight jazz, funk, and rock.
• Their early name was Afro Latin Blues Quintet +1 before adopting the Afro-Latin Soultet moniker.
• The album Afrodesia features sounds of thunderstorms and jungle animals, adding to its unique musical landscape.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Jack Millman - Producer who discovered the band (Afrodesia) [Late 1960s]

Key Collaborators

• DJ Garth Trinidad - Featured their music on his show (Afrodesia) [Recent years]

Artists Influenced

• Various contemporary Latin jazz artists - Influence through their eclectic style (Afrodesia) [Late 20th century onwards]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Cuban Incident (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
2. Rush Job (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
3. Alone In My Dream (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
4. Tequila N' Sand (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
5. Up-Side-Down (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
6. Lazy Day (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
7. Fast Eddie (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
8. Trippin' (Jazztette (Digitally Remastered))
9. I Couldn't Live Without Your Love (Wild!)
10. Afro Breed (Wild!)

External Links

• Spotify
• [Wikipedia](Not available)
• MusicBrainz