Orchestra Mambo International

Orchestra Mambo International is a powerhouse 13-piece Latin big band formed in late 2022 by salsa DJ Lubi Jovanovic (DJ Lubi) and trombonist/composer Jonny Enright (Grupo X). Bringing together top musicians from across Venezuela, Colombia, Cuba, Spain, Brazil, and the UK, the group celebrates the golden era of mambo, salsa dura, and Afro-Cuban jazz, while delivering it with a fresh, contemporary energy.

Drawing inspiration from Latin music legends Tito Puente, Machito, Eddie Palmieri, Celia Cruz, Ray Barretto, and Tito Rodriguez, OMI have quickly become a force on the UK Latin and jazz scenes. Their thrilling live shows have lit up festivals such as Glastonbury, Leeds Jazz Festival, and Musicport, and sold out venues including The Forge (London), Brudenell Social Club (Leeds), and Band on the Wall (Manchester).

Following four acclaimed single releases of original mambo, Latin jazz, and cha cha - championed by Gilles Peterson, Huey Morgan, Craig Charles, Jamz Supernova, Don Letts, and Cerys Matthews - the band now step forward with their debut album Apúntalo, out September 2026 on Loft Recordings. Featuring all original compositions, the album showcases the group's dynamic sound with lead vocalist Carlos Peña from Venezuela, formerly a featured singer with Oscar D'León's orchestra, and guest appearances from Cuban singer Claritzel Miyares.