Kevin Clark has travelled twice to Latin America, played and studied in Cuba, and Los Gringos is now acknowledged as New Zealand’s premier Latin Jazz Group.
This seven piece group brings alive the exciting and exotic sounds of Afro-Cuban and Brazilian jazz. The group has been highly acclaimed for their appearances at the Wellington International Jazz Festivals, The Christchurch International Jazz Festival (featuring Diana Krall) Manawatu International Jazz Festival, Massey Conservatorium Concert Series, Wellington SummerCity etc.
Los Gringos can be heard on three tracks on the album "Zahara".

Specialised Afro Cuban tunes

Music by:

Arturo Sandoval

Palmieri

Mongo Santamaria

Chick Corea
 
 
 

For a lighter side of Los Gringos, ideal for Balls, conventions and large functions, vocalist Fran Barton joins the group adding a repertoire of popular classic Latin hits, sung in Spanish, Portuguese and English, with a powerhouse backing. The repertoire also extends to include swing, jump and some R&B.

In this format the group plays annually at the Toast Martinborough Wine and Food Festival, and has performed at Te Papa, a major International Convention at the Chateau, at Government House with the Wellington Sinfonia-“An Afternoon in Seville” and other corporate functions.

Sample repertoire:

  • Manana
  • Sway
  • Quisas
  • Mambo Italiano
  • ElCumbanchero
  • Bailamos
  • Mas Que Nada
  • Eso Beso
  • Quando Quando
  • Guantanamera
  • In Spain they Say Si Si
  • Lady of Spain
  • Bad Habits
  • Blue Skies
  • Chatanooga Choo Choo
  • Frim Fram Sauce
  • Is You is or is You Aint
  • Sing Sing Sing