THE DIRECTOR
Artist: Samuel Formell, 48
Hails from: Havana
Plays with: Drummer and musical director, since 2004, of Grammy-winning, world-renowned dance band Los Van Van, which was founded in 1969 by his father Juan Formell (1942-2014).
Sound: Like nothing else: four lead singers, flute, two violins, three trombones, keyboards and much rhythm.
Trademark: The family-like stability of the band under his leadership; most of the musicians have been with Los Van Van for 20 years or more.
Currently mixing: Live in Paris concert DVD.
Coming soon: U.S. tour (Miami, New York, Denver, San Francisco and more), July 29 to Aug. 30.
What’s next for Cuba?: “Nothing is clear yet. The embargo is still on.”
–Ned Sublette