Eddy Balzola & ORIENTE!

Born in Guanabacoa, Cuba, composer, arranger and guitarist Egidio 'Eddy' Balzola debuted his world fusion band in New Orleans at the famed Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro in the mid-90s. The evening's audience was comprised of curious musicians, local media, and all kinds of Jazz lovers. They were wowed by ORIENTE’s original, unique, fresh and soulful sound. Balzola's travels have inspired the band's sound greatly. His arrangements combine Latin Jazz seasoned with Afro-Cuban, Caribbean and Brazilian rhythms. The band stays busy with concerts, festivals, workshops, cultural and community events. Memorable events include: St. Lucia Jazz Festival (West Indies), MOJA and Piccolo Spoleto (South Carolina), White Mountains tour (Arizona), Jeff Fest (New Orleans), JVC Jazz Fest, and South Beach Jazz Festival (Miami Beach, FL) Europe tour: Germany, England, Scandinavia (D.O.D. Tour).. In 2022, Balzola was invited to perform at The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, joining well-known local musicians.

The band and its individual members have opened for and/or played with: Ray Barreto, Mongo Santamaria, Celia Cruz, Peruvian icon Yma Sumac, Paquito D' Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, The Neville Brothers, Chaka Khan, Richie Havens and many more.

The ORIENTE Trio is a project Balzola feels passionate about. With his long-time band mates, including master percussionist Yoel Del Sol, and highly regarded upright and electric bassist Rusty Heck, the Trio’s musical palette ranges from traditional Cuban classics to Swing, Latin Jazz, Blues, Roots and Rhythms, always with the freedom to improvise at any moment.

Jammin' at The Center 2024-2025