When asked to name the king of mainstream Cuban dance bands, contemporary islanders will probably give one name: Los Van Van. Showcasing a mix of charanga, son, and rock, with a strong jazz influence, the island-based dance orchestra was a major force in Afro-Cuban music. Undisputed champions at home, they were among the few Cuban bands to have recorded outside Cuba, invigorating international salsa with original versions of Cuban sounds.
Juan Formell , a bassist and songwriter,...