On 7 November, In The Mood Jazz Club welcomes virtuoso American pianist Andy Nevala and his outstanding international quartet for two exclusive concerts celebrating Latin and Afro-Cuban jazz in all its brilliance. Four exceptional musicians bring together the passion of Cuban music, the instrumental flair of jazz and the energy of a Latin party in a programme of rich arrangements, dazzling solos and irresistible rhythms.
Andy Nevala Quartet combines Latin and Afro-Cuban jazz, Cuban standards and original compositions. This is music with a strong dance pulse and exceptional instrumental finesse: percussive piano phrases, full-bodied bass lines and intricate rhythmic figures that the four musicians turn into an immediate pleasure for the audience. Inspiration from great Cuban pianists such as Chucho Valdés and Gonzalo Rubalcaba meets Nevala’s distinctive arranging style and a repertoire that reaches across genres.
“Sets a new standard in Latin and Afro-Cuban jazz.”
– Robert Silverstein, Roots Music Report, on El Rumbón (The Party)
A defining feature of the quartet’s sound is the combination of drums and a separate percussion section. Congas and drums interweave contrasting rhythmic accents, building tension that the bass sustains while the piano steers the music through crisp figures, rich chords and exhilarating solos. Behind the apparent ease with which this music captivates lie precision, imagination and a deep understanding of the Afro-Cuban tradition.
Leading the ensemble is Andy Nevala – a pianist, composer and arranger with decades of international experience. His performing career includes tours with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Steve Lippia and Eddie Turner, while his arranging credits include the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Denver Brass and the Steve Lippia Big Band. He has appeared on more than 20 albums, including Big Band of Brothers – an ambitious big-band interpretation of the music of the Allman Brothers Band, which debuted at No. 2 on the Billboard jazz charts in 2019.
Recognised by DownBeat for composition, arranging, performance and ensemble direction, Nevala also serves as Director of Jazz Studies at Jacksonville State University. He holds a doctorate from the University of Colorado Boulder and combines his performing career with teaching, conducting and masterclasses in the United States and Europe.
His discography includes El Rumbón (The Party), released in 2025 by New York-based label ZOHO. The album brings together original music and Afro-Cuban interpretations of compositions by Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Thelonious Monk, Sting and Dizzy Gillespie, showcasing his distinctive approach as a pianist and arranger.
“A celebration of Latin jazz in all its historical depth and future potential.”
– Tomas Peña, on El Rumbón (The Party)
For the two concerts at In The Mood, Nevala presents the European lineup of his quartet:
Abel Sanabria Padrón – bass
Born in Matanzas, Cuba, he graduated from the National School of Music in Havana, specialising in double bass and electric bass. He spent 20 years with the renowned a cappella group Vocal Sampling, performing at festivals worldwide and sharing the stage with Bobby McFerrin, Paul Simon, Peter Gabriel and Quincy Jones. Now based in Valencia, he works across jazz, salsa and Latin music.
Emrah Kotan – drums
Born in Turkey, this classically trained percussionist has built an international career that includes work with India.Arie and Jennifer Holliday. He has performed at the Montreux Jazz Festival, Istanbul Jazz Festival and Java Jazz Festival, as well as Blue Note in New York. His rhythmic precision and wide-ranging musical experience are an essential part of the quartet’s spirited character.
Carlos Llidó – percussion
A percussionist with extensive experience on the Spanish jazz scene and a thorough grounding in the Afro-Cuban tradition. He studied with Miguel Berro Rosales before continuing his training in Cuba with masters such as Miguel “Angá” Díaz and José Eladio Amat “El Teacher”. His work includes Sedajazz Latin Ensemble, Sedajazz Big Band and Perico Sambeat Big Band, alongside his own project, Carlos Llidó Septet. He brings the rich sound of the congas to the quartet, together with a sensitivity to the rhythmic details that give the music its infectious dance character.
Join us on 7 November for two special performances by Andy Nevala Quartet – Latin and Afro-Cuban jazz delivered with virtuosity and a celebratory spirit. An evening with something to discover in every instrument and rhythms that make it difficult to sit still.