Caleb Michel
Rhythmic Heritage Fusion
A dynamic percussionist and vocalist bridging the gap between traditional Afro-Cuban rhythms, contemporary jazz improvisation, and psychedelic desert cumbia.
About
Caleb Michel is a Phoenix-born percussionist and vocalist widely recognized for his long-standing tenure with Juan de Marcos and the Afro-Cuban All Stars. As a co-leader of the psychedelic cumbia group Los Esplifs, he has become a key figure in the Southwest's genre-bending music scene, collaborating with artists ranging from Joel Ross to Big Thief.
Music Style
Michel’s sound blends traditional Afro-Caribbean percussion with modern jazz sensibilities. His approach integrates complex rhythmic dialects like changüí and son with the vibrant, atmospheric textures of psychedelic cumbia and improvisational music.
Background
- Hometown
- Phoenix, Arizona
- Education
- University of Arizona
- Instruments
- drums, vocals
- Active
- 2013-present
Similar Artists
If you like the Afro-Cuban All Stars, Orkesta Mendoza, or Calexico — you'll love this artist