Los Calicubanos
Overview
Los Calicubanos is a high-energy Afro-Cuban/Latin jazz/salsa band from Los Angeles, blending Havana’s soulful rhythms with SoCal’s vibrant spirit. Led by bassist Dr. Erim Kardes, the ensemble delivers electrifying performances that ignite dance floors. Rooted in a deep passion for Afro-Cuban music, the group combines precision, groove, and authenticity—performing across Los Angeles and Havana to share the joy and rhythm of this vibrant musical tradition.
Reviews
2 reviews
Morganne
April 17, 2026Reliable & Great Talent!
I hired Los Calicubanos for my wedding shower. Erim was very communicative. The group plays great. We had a fun time celebrating and dancing to the music! Most importantly, they were reliable.
Hired as: Salsa Band
Samantha P.
March 23, 2026Amazing Musicians, Los Calicubanos Brought Life To Our Event
I cannot rave enough about my experience with Los Calicubanos! Not only were they timely and professional, but they were kind and had lovely attitudes. They brought their own sound system and helped promote the event, which everyone at Musical Theatre West appreciated. Without them, the event would have really lacked heart and soul. More than half the event goers made a point of telling staff how much they enjoyed the band at the event.
Hired as: Dance Band, Salsa Band
Booking information
Price range: Contact for rates
About
Los Calicubanos is a high-energy Afro-Cuban/Latin jazz/salsa ensemble from Los Angeles, blending the rhythms of Cuba with the vibrant spirit of Southern California. Led by bassist Dr. Erim Kardes, the band delivers electrifying sets of original tunes and classic covers that ignite dance floors and captivate audiences. Erim honed his craft while earning a Ph.D. in Engineering at USC, simultaneously studying jazz bass with Weather Report’s Alphonso Johnson and immersing himself in Afro-Cuban traditions. This fusion of academic rigor and musical passion gives the band its edge—tight, grooving, and deeply authentic. Los Calicubanos regularly collaborates with artists in Havana, Cuba, where they also record and perform. Whether on festival stages or in intimate clubs, their mission is to share the richness of Afro-Cuban music with joy, integrity, and infectious rhythm.
Services offered
Past booked events
June 2026
05
Friday
Funeral/Memorial Service
2:00pm - 5:00pm
•
Bonita, CA
April 2026
12
Sunday
Bridal Shower
5:00pm - 7:00pm
•
Los Angeles, CA