Afro-Cuban . Latin-Jazz . Folklore
.jpg/:/cr=t:8.43%25,l:0%25,w:100%25,h:83.14%25/rs=w:2255,h:1500,cg:true)
About Montuno West
Montuno West - bio
Montuno West fuses Afro-Cuban folklore, Latin, Venezuelan, Brazilian, jazz, and global music influences to craft a captivating and dynamic sound. Their innovative blend of tradition and modernity keeps the music fresh, vibrant, and uplifting. With infectious energy and rhythmic vitality, Montuno West invites listeners on a journey of cultural exploration and joyous celebration.
In 2019, the band was honoured with the Calgary Music Award for World Recording of the Year and earned a nomination for a Western Canadian Music Award in the World category, solidifying their reputation as one of Canada’s most exciting and ground-breaking ensembles.
Comprised by CBC Rising Star Award-winner Chris Andrew and multi-WCMA Award-winner Rubim de Toledo, Montuno West brings together Latin percussion masters Luis Tovar and Raul Tabera. Together, they create music that stimulates the mind, moves the body, and nourishes the spirit.
For their highly anticipated album Raises, Montuno West is thrilled to collaborate with the extraordinary Israel “Toto” Berriel (Vancouver/Cuba). A renowned Afro-Cuban percussionist, vocalist, and educator, Toto brings deep musical knowledge and passion to the project. Having spent twelve years with the iconic Grammy award-winning Rumba group Los Muñequitos de Matanzas, he has perfected the Afro-Cuban traditions. Known for his soulful vocals and virtuoso percussion, Toto effortlessly blends Afro-Cuban rhythms with jazz, soul, and funk. Originally from Matanzas, Cuba, Toto has toured worldwide and made Canada his home since 2001.
Montuno West:
- Israel “Toto” Berriel – Vocals / Percussion
- Chris Andrew – Piano
- Rubim de Toledo – Bass
- Raul Tabera – Percussion / Vocals
- Luis Tovar – Drums / Vocals
Recent News
April 8, 2025 - #1 on the CJSW International Radio Chart
April 8, 2025 – #5 on the Earshot National International Radio Chart
April 1, 2025 - #4 on the CJSW International Radio Chart
March 25, 2025 - #8 on the CFBX International Radio Chart
March 18, 2025 – #3 on the Earshot National International Radio Chart
March 18, 2025 - #1 on the CJSW International Radio Chart
March 11, 2025 – #2 on the Earshot National International Radio Chart
March 4, 2025 – #2 on the Earshot National International Radio Chart
March 6, 2025 - #19 on the CKUA Radio Chart
February 25, 2025 - #1 on the CFBX International Radio Chart
February 18, 2025 - #1 on the CFBX International Radio Chart
February 18, 2025 - #5 on the Earshot National International Radio Chart
February 13, 2025 - #16 on the CFBX Radio Chart
February 13, 2025 - #5 on the CKUA Radio Chart
February 11, 2025 - #26 on the Earshot Top 50 Radio Chart
February 6, 2025 - #3 on the CKUA Radio Chart
January 28, 2025 – #1 on the CFUV Jazz Radio Chart
January 28, 2025 – #3 on the Earshot National Jazz Radio Chart
December 10, 2024 – #7 on the National Earshot Jazz Radio Chart
December 10, 2024 – #2 on the CFUV Jazz Radio Chart
December 5, 2024 – #4 on the CKUA Radio Radio Chart
November 29, 2024 – Montuno West releases new album, Raices on vinyl, CD, and streaming platforms
November 30, 2024 – Sold out concert at Ironwood (Calgary)
November 29, 2024 – Sold out concert at Yardbird Suite (Edmonton)
