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Jstop Latin Soul
Afro-Cuban Jazz
Electronic Press Kit
Born in the Blue Ridge mountains of Roanoke, Virginia, and fueled by an obsession for Afro-Cuban rhythms, Jstop Latin Soul ignites the stage with a bold fusion of Latin grooves, blazing jazz, and gritty soul. Inspired by legends like Irékere, Papo Vázquez, and Jerry González & the Fort Apache Band, we honor the past while fearlessly pushing into the future—creating a sound that’s both powerful and fresh.
As an Afro-Cuban jazz & dance band, we deliver the perfect soundtrack for your dance cravings. Our music keeps you dancing while showcasing exceptional jazz that captivates the soul. Come feel the energy and let the rhythm take over!
Featuring:
Joel Stopka brings the heat to Afro-Cuban rhythms! His passion for Latin music ignited at the Eastman School of Music, shaping him into a trombone force. With roots in Chicago’s vibrant Latin scene, he has shared the stage with salsa legends like Frankie Ruiz, Cheo Feliciano, DLG (Dark Latin Groove), and Rafael de Jesus. As the leader of Jstop Latin Soul, Joel blends bold Latin rhythms with dynamic jazz, delivering electrifying performances that celebrate rhythm and brass.
Vladimir Espinosa, hailing from the rhythmic heart of Havana, Cuba, is a powerhouse of Afro-Cuban tradition! A master of congas, batas, percussion, and vocals, he honed his craft at Cuba’s prestigious Instituto Superior de Arte (ENA), the nation’s premier school of arts. Vladimir’s globe-spanning career includes performances with renowned groups like Savuka Son, Havana Express, Los Gatos, Solazo, and Western Mambo, blending his fiery energy with Latin grooves that captivate audiences. His passion for Afro-Cuban traditions, combined with his world-class training and experience with these incredible ensembles, lights up the stage, making every show a journey through rhythm and soul.
Brian Mesko is a bass & guitar phenom who fuses jazz, funk, and soul into an explosive sonic experience! Raised in a family of musicians, his lightning-fast fingers and deep grooves channel legends like Wes Montgomery and John Coltrane, creating a sound that’s as versatile as it is thrilling. From sharing stages with jazz giants like Les McCann and Dr. Lonnie Smith to crafting his own signature projects, Brian’s bass work weaves together virtuosity and raw emotion, setting the stage ablaze every time he plays.
Listen to tracks from our debut album, Rumbalike!
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Seeing is Believing!
Here are Some choice videos
"Celebrating the 20th reunion of the Salem Jazz Festival, Jstop Latin Soul proved a wonderful addition to this year’s bands! Professional, well rehearsed, and well received by all in the park!"
Lenny Marcus - Salem Jazz Fest Director
“Jstop got the crowd dancing in the summer heat at Steppin’ Out. They brought good energy and were easy to work with. We look forward to bringing them back!”
Eve Lee - Performance Coordinator of Steppin Out
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"Jstop is the BEST! I included them in a Havana Nights Theme Party and they made the night. Their music, showmanship and flexibility helped make the party a success. Talented musicians, great personalities and dressed for the part. They were so easy to work with and helped make everything perfect!"
Vicki Shannan - Creative Entertainment
Info
Genre: Afro-Cuban Jazz / Rumba / Salsa
Latest Release: “Rumbalike feat. Ken Hitchcock”
Members
Joel Stopka - trombone, percussion
Brian Mesko - bass
Vladimir Espinosa - conga / bata / vocal
Bobby Read - tenor / alto / soprano sax
Willis Greenstreet - guitar
Tom Floyd - piano
Jamiel Allen - synth / piano
David Sandoval - bongos / cowbell / vocal
DeWayne Peters - drums
Cities & Venues Headlined
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Virginia: Richmond, Roanoke, Floyd, Lynchburg
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North Carolina: Raleigh
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Washington, DC
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Maryland: Bethesda
Music Festivals & Events
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Floydstock - Floyd, Va.
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Salem Jazz Festival - Salem, Va.
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Jazz in the Garden, National Gallery of Art, Washington DC
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Grandin Theatre - Hispanic Heritage Month, Roanoke, Va.
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Jefferson Center - CD Release Party, Roanoke, Va.
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VMFA Dominion Energy Jazz Café - Richmond, Va.
Band Footprint
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Virginia
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North Carolina
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Washington, DC
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Maryland
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Pennsylvania
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Tennesse
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West Virginia
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South Carolina
More Detailed Info Upon Request
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