Formed in Oakland by master Cuban timbalero and multi-percussionist Mario “Mayito” Salomón, TimbeKO is “one of the greatest Stateside practitioners of timba” (Austin Chronicle), celebrating five years of dance-inspiring performances with their signature blend of Cuban salsa and R&B, gospel, jazz, and funk influences. Making their debut in 2018 at Oakland’s Temescal Street Fair, the group has traveled far and wide to bring the sounds of timba to the masses, from Bimbo’s 365 Club, San Francisco Carnaval, and La Peña Cultural Center to KPFA radio’s “Con Sabor,” San Jose Jazz, and their new adopted home of Austin.



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Mario y su Timbeko

SFJAZZ Center

Born and raised in Cuba, Carlitos Medrano came to the US after having trained with one of Cuba’s most famous congueros, Jose Luis “Changuito” Quintana. While in Cuba, he played extensively with some of Havana’s best-known Latin Jazz and Salsa groups, and, since coming to the US, has played with many of the Bay Area’s finest Latin groups. In December 2012, he created his own recording, entitled Sabor De Mi Cuba, recorded and mastered in the prestigious Egrem Studios in Havana, Cuba.

Carlitos Medrano

Events

Upcoming events

Jul 7, 2026

Carlitos Medrano · Luther Burbank Center for the Arts

Past events

Jul 29, 2023

Mario y su Timbeko · San Francisco Jazz

About

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