Manuel Valera | Piano, Fender Rhodes, Synths Yosvany Terry | Alto and Soprano Saxophone, Chekere (except 8) Tom Guarna | Electric and Acoustic Guitar John Benitez | Bass Ludwig Afonso | Drums Paulo Stagnaro | Percussion on 2-10 and 12 Mauricio Herrera | Batas on 6 and Percussion on 1 and 11 Special Guest: Manuel Valera (Sr) | Alto Saxophone on 8 Produced by Manuel Valera for Mavo Records About the Music on Expectativas: The music on this recording represents my continued growth as a composer, pianist and bandleader. I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to work regularly with the NCX and I feel a deep connection with all the members of the band. Here’s a brief synopsis of each track. “Chamber Timba” is a composition that infuses the high energy of timba music with the subtleties of Jazz. This is a concept that we have been working on as a band. “Expectativas” is a tune that has been part of the band’s repertoire and I’ve always fe...