Artist description DESAFIO is known for their unique brand of music which combines heavy metal with flamenco, Latin rhythms and a generous dose of progressive rock/metal.

Music Style Spanish Heavy Metal with Flamenco, Latin and progressive rock influences.

Musical Influences Paco De Lucia, Iron Maiden, Santana, Queensryche, (old) Metallica, Yngwie Malmsteen

Artist History The growing popularity of the Spanish rock movement has spawned scenes in every major city in the United States. New groups are constantly popping up on the local circuits, but not all of them have received the international acclaim that DESAFIO has garnered. This New York City-based quintet was formed during the summer of 1995. Since then, they have become one of the hottest bands on the national scene. Their original and sophisticated sound described as flamenco rock or heavy metal flamenco combines the thunderous sounds of heavy metal with flamenco melodies, rhythms and progressions as well as Latin rhythms and a dose of progressive rock, classical and fusion jazz.Thought-provoking lyrics in Spanish and English comment on social and personal issues as well as creative and innovative arrangements that take the unsuspecting listener by surprise. The unique use of traditional and non-traditional sounds are featured in their compositions. The use of a string or horn section, a lush vocal harmony, Latin percussion, or the passionate sound of the flamenco guitar will thrill and excite anyone’s ear.DESAFIO have performed in every major club in New York including S.O.B.’s, Continental, Elbow Room, Carbon and 7 Willow. Plus venues in other cities like The House of Blues in Chicago, Bayfront Park Arena and Sticky Fingers in Miami. Their live performance is explosive and crowd response is always enthusiastic.The band is composed of five individuals who are all seasoned vets from New York’s rampant music scene. Lead vocalist Joey Figueroa belts out unforgettable melodies with intense emotion, maturity and skill. Intricate guitar harmonies and fiery lead work by guitar virtuoso Jason Jenkins are also featured. Bassist Bobby Devlin lays a rock-solid foundation and drummer Richard “Chino”Ramirez pounds out the rhythms. Latin percussionist Manuel Tremano rounds out the group with his rhythmic capability and stunning solo endeavors. Since the formation of the band, DESAFIO has won several awards including “Mejor Show del Año”(“Best Performance of the Year”) from Premios Rock Latino (Spanish Rock Awards Show) and have opened up for many national and international acts like Quiet Riot, Stryper, A.N.I.M.A.L., Angeles del Infierno, Flotsom and Jetsam, King Changó, Spanish Fly, Victimas del Dr. Cerebro, Desorden Publico. The list goes on and on.The award-winning outfit has also been featured on the international television show Edicion Especial on Televisa and appeared on Acatarock, a nationally syndicated Spanish rock video show. Also, because of their background, DESAFIO has an acoustic set that includes songs from their electric catalog arranged in a completely acoustic fashion plus a few suprises.With a totally unique and memorable sound, impressive ability, amazing showmanship and image, DESAFIO is sure to leave their mark on the world scene.

Group Members vocalist Joey Figueroa, guitarist Jason Jenkins, bassist Bobby Devlin, drummer Richie Ramirez and guest Latin percussionist

Instruments Guitar, Bass, Drums, Voice, Latin Percussion

Press Reviews www.DESAFIOROCK.com, http://www.geocities.com/rockontourgallery/pagedesafio.html?991901141610

Additional Info T-shirts available for $15.00

Location Westchester/New York City, NY - USA

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