January 18th 2018 at 7:30pm

Luzna

Members $10, non-members $12

Prepare to be swept to warmer climates as the Georgia Straight Jazz Society presents Latin ensemble Luzna at the Avalanche Bar & Grill in Courtenay.

Their own creative play on two Spanish words, luz (light) and luna (moon), the name Luzna is meant to translate loosely as "music inspired by light of the moon."

Formed in 2008, Luzna started out as an acoustic Latin quartet. As time passed, the group grew in members as well as followers and quickly became known as Luzna Latin-soul Orchestra, a sure-fire solution to getting audiences of all ages enjoying themselves on the dance floor.

In 2009, the band shared the stage with Victoria's Son de Cuba band, headlining the Comox Valley's first Latin Festival, sponsored and hosted by the former Cabana de Marcos restaurant. Over the years, Luzna has released one self-titled album and participated in festivals such as Tofino's Pacific Rim Whale Festival, Campbell River's Latin Festival and Cumberland's Big Time Out, as well as numerous Canada Day celebrations.

After four years on hiatus, the band has recently regrouped and features pioneering members Oscar Robles Diaz (vocals, drum kit, guitar, Mexican requinto), Brittany Christina Bowman (bass and vocals), Jim Papp (vocals, Cuban tres, guitar and percussion), Micheal Johnson (vocals, guitar and trumpet), plus newest additions - Glenn Jamison (keyboard), Cameron Boyce (violin) and Steve Ruskin (congas).

For this special evening hosted by the GSJS, Luzna will present original compositions as well as select classics from a range of genres from rhythmic and infectious Cuban-style Son to slower-paced, heartfelt Bolero, smooth and groovy Cha-cha-cha and the very intriguing Son Jarocho style that originated in the mountains of Mexico's Veracruz state as well as neighbouring regions in the state of Oaxaca.

A limited number of Luzna CDs will be available for purchase. Note that this band has a large and loyal following, so it is a good idea to arrive early to get a good seat.

For more information about the forthcoming shows during the remainder of this performance year, please browse the GSJS web site and select the calendar tab.

GSJS showcases jazz live in the Comox Valley, giving music lovers an opportunity to enjoys local, regional and internationally-known jazz musicians.