Charanga Cakewalk

Charanga Cakewalk is the brainchild of Michael Ramos, a self-described Latino Chicano Mexican who is also as his music makes abundantly clear – a citizen of the world.

Followers of popular music will recognize Ramos for his work as a sideman and sometimes rock and roller; before striking out on his own as the king of cumbia lounge – a feel good musical mélange that includes artfully tweaked elements of Tejano, flamenco folklorica, merengue, salsa, garage rock, ska and reggaton.

Band leader Michael Ramos has a lifetime of experience after being a much sought-after musician with the likes of John Mellencamp, Patti Griffith, the BoDeans, Los Lonely Boys, and Robert Plant. Ramos’ musical career always continues to be paved: movie score composer, live performer and producer. Additionally, Michael created a musical/creative haven—his studio Brown Recluse, where he has worked on scores for film and TV projects and produces music with an array of artists such as Lila Downs and Gina Chavez. In Michael’s Charanga Cakewalk album “El Brown Recluse” the same level of work remained as from his previous records, while also bringing in a fresh new sensibility that sees the participation of artists that included David Garza, Gecko Turner, Brian Ramos (Master Blaster Sound System) and more. Joining Michael in the “Live” incarnation of Charanga Cakewalk are his musical peers: Brian Ramos (vocals) the original lead singer for Grupo Fantasma and now Master Blaster Sound System, Jacob Owen (guitar) a highly sought after guitarist/composer who  plays with several national touring artists (that includes Sahara Smith), Kyle Thompson (drums & percussion) who has played with such musicians as Ravi Coltrane, Eric Johnson and the late Al Grey of the Count Basie Orchestra as well as countless Austin area musicians, Alan Uribe (bass) - one of Austin’s hottest bass players, John “El John” Nelson (percussion), Alex Marrero (percussion & guitar) and Claude McCan (keyboards) round up the lineup.  Throughout the U.S., audiences have been enraptured by Charanga Cakewalk’s concoction of Latin, indie, lounge, and—most importantly—dance elements seamlessly infused into their “Live” shows.