Havana Comes to Hollywood

The Cuban flutist-bandleader Orlando 'Maraca' Valle's arrival at this intimate Hollywood Blvd spot is hardly small potatoes. After all, he just headlined at the jumbo-prestigious Monterey Jazz Festival, and when the twelve Havana heads in his band start simmering, expect incendiary results. Touring in support of his new Lo Que Quiero Es Fiesta CD, Maraca, who made his bones as a child prodigy in renowned Cuban pianist Chucho Valdes' band, is at the top of his game. With a set that mixes up contemporary influences and deep Cuban tradition, he sways through guajira, descarga, timba, son and rumba, all of it put over with dazzling skill and exquisitely crafted arrangements. A not to be squandered opportunity.
Tue., Sept. 30, 9:30 p.m., 2008