Los Calicubanos Salsa Band from Los Angeles, CA

Los Calicubanos is a high-energy Afro-Cuban/Latin jazz/salsa ensemble based in Los Angeles, blending the soulful rhythms of Havana with the vibrant spirit of Southern California. Led by bassist Dr. Erim Kardes, the group delivers electrifying performances of both original compositions and classic covers that ignite dance floors and captivate audiences. Formed by a deep passion for Afro-Cuban music, Los Calicubanos features a powerhouse lineup of seven seasoned musicians. Erim discovered his love for Cuban music while pursuing a Ph.D. in Engineering at USC, where he also studied jazz bass under legendary Weather Report bassist Alphonso Johnson at the Thornton School of Music. This fusion of academic rigor and musical fire gives the band a unique edge—technically tight, deeply grooving, and always authentic. Los Calicubanos is a staple in the Southern California Latin music scene and frequently collaborates with artists in Havana, Cuba, where the group also records and performs. Whether playing intimate club sets or festival stages, their mission remains the same: to celebrate and share the richness of Afro-Cuban music with joy, integrity, and infectious rhythm. Available for festivals, concerts, private events, and cultural showcases.