8 y Más is one of the hottest new bands to burst onto the Latin music scene. The band is the cooperative effort of internationally recognized Latin musicians/producers, Bobby Allende, Angel Fernandez, Ricky Gonzalez and Marc Quiñones. Although the band is new, its members are anything but new to the industry. Considered by many to be some of the best musicians in NYC and beyond, the band boasts an impressive group of stellar veteran musicians that in addition to Bobby, Angel, Ricky and Marc includes Ray Bayona (lead vocals), Ruben Rodriguez, Willie Alvarez, Raul Agraz, Arturo Ortiz, Jose Tabares and Manuel Ruiz.
The members' individual achievements are impressive; together, they are a force to be reckoned with. They have played individually, and collectively, with a who's who of music greats that cover many genres of music including, Tito Puente, Celia Cruz, Ruben Blades, Ray Barretto, Tito Nieves, Marc Anthony, La India, Dave Valentin, Willie Colon, Allman Brothers Band, Grover Washington, Jr. and Spyro Gyro to name a few.
In November, 2006, the band released its first production, "Juega Billar." The CD has risen quickly to the top of many "best of" lists including, the Descarga Review and Salsa Picante. With their astonishing renditions of compositions by Lalo Rodriguez, Ismael Miranda, Ruben Blades and Ray Barretto among others, it is no surprise that the band is rapidly gaining attention worldwide. The CD is considered a "must have" for serious salsa lovers. 8 y Más is destined to take salsa back to its original flavor as they play, "La Musica de Ayer, Con El Sonido de Hoy," ("Yesterday's Music with Today's Sound).
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