Jazz in July: Latin Jazz Night - Ireson Latin Band and Josse Manuel

Mexican pianist and composer Alina Ramirez and bassist, guitarist, composer and arranger Mario Lopez founded Ireson in 1991. Growing up surrounded by the tradition of Latin music, both have incorporated their formal classical training and knowledge of modern harmony to the music they play and compose. Since the project started, many international musicians have performed with Ireson, bringing its rhythms and energy to festivals, concerts and clubs.

Currently the band’s line-up includes Mexican musicians Moy Olivera on timbales and drums and young sonero Josse Manuel. Also joining them are a three-piece horn section—Ashley Howard on trombone, Tim Stocker on alto and Dan Z'berg on trumpet. Together their live performances incorporate original compositions, Latin American dance music such as tango and samba, traditional Cuban son, and salsa.

Based in Singapore for almost 19 years, the Ramirez and Lopez have performed in various festivals in Singapore and the region. Ireson’s music blends tradition with contemporary styles, exploring Afro-Latin rhythms and Mexican folklore and brings a new unique sound. Their first album Vendo Rumba was recorded live in No Black Tie, one of the best clubs in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, together with a brass section. It comprises compositions and arrangements by Mario Lopez and Alina Ramírez. The album was presented in Singapore in a sold-out concert at Esplanade in February 2012.