Latin jazz brings together the improvisation of jazz with the rhythms and musical traditions of Latin America. For our upcoming Latin Showcase, the Dynamic Jazz Orchestra directed by Marty Pervan will explore a repertoire spanning Afro-Cuban jazz, mambo, Brazilian music and some unexpected favourites.

Joining the 18-piece orchestra is Cuban-born vocalist and bassist Arvis Mena, frontman of De Cuba Son. Born in Havana, Mena grew up surrounded by the sounds of rumba and was influenced by artists including Irakere and Buena Vista Social Club. Perth-based composer and percussionist Imogen Thomson, and featured artist at RTRFM’s Jazz Supreme 2025, will also perform on the night. Thomson has developed a strong connection to Afro-Cuban music through her work with Mejadra, a project she co-leads with pianist Austin Salisbury that combines jazz improvisation with Afro-Cuban grooves.

The setlist features several works by the legendary Tito Puente, known as the ‘King of Latin Jazz’, as well as landmark piece ‘Manteca’ by jazz trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie and Cuban percussionist and composer Chano Pozo with arranger Gil Fuller, and Tania Maria’s ‘Yatra-Tá’ fast-paced jazz-samba piece that is sure to get audiences on their feet.

With Arvis Mena bringing his experience in Cuban music and Imogen Thomson adding her expertise on percussion, the concert will also give DJO musicians the opportunity to work alongside artists with a deep understanding of these musical traditions.

Following on from our previous Havana Nights! performances, Latin Showcase continues the orchestra’s exploration of Latin music, bringing together music from different periods and traditions to show the breadth of Latin jazz and its influence on contemporary music.

Bring your dancing shoes to ‘Latin Showcase’ at The Rechabite on Friday 4 September. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets available from Moshtix.