Manolito y Su Trabuco, led by pianist and arranger Manolito Simonet, emerged in
1993 as one of Cuba’s most dynamic timba and salsa bands, blending the
traditional charanga format with a powerful brass section and modern rhythmic
elements. After Simonet’s departure from Maravilla de Florida, the group quickly
gained recognition with their debut album Directo al corazón (1995), followed by
Contra todos los pronósticos (1996), which helped bridge the gap between timba
and the international salsa market. Their signature sound, driven by intricate
horn arrangements, driving percussion...