The 3rd Annual Latin Jazz Fest will take place at Casa Borrega, 1719 Oretha Castle Haley Boulevard, Friday, December 21, from 7-11:30pm, with musical performances by The Iguanas, Mas Mamones with Steve Masakowski, and the Alexey Marti Quintet. The event is FREE and open to the public.  

The Iguanas will perform a rare set of 100% Latin music.  As Rod Hodges, leader and guitar player for The Iguanas, says, “Latin rhythms are not only part of our mix with New Orleans-style music, but at the same time Spanish music has been a central part of the local repertoire.”  

Mas Mamones also recognizes the New Orleans—Latin connection. “Professor Longhair was distinguished in his time for mixing Afro-Cuban rhythms in his interpretations,” notes Manny Lander, vocalist and leader of Mas Mamones, whose faithful interpretation of Charanga (traditional Cuban music) will be infused with the swing and counterpoint of local jazz legend Steve Masakowski on guitar.  

Alexey Marti, Cuban native, who recently opened for the Chucho Valdez concert at the Joy Theater to rave reviews, is the latest rising star in New Orleans Latin Jazz. This opening band is Mr. Marti’s first foray as band leader and will be kicking off the Festival.  This event is underwritten in part by the New Orleans Musicians Clinic and Cuba NOLA Arts Collective.

As part of the monthly Supper Bowl Jam, a food truck will be serving outside Casa Borrega.