Adrian Areas Latin Jazz Ensemble

Adrian Areas is a percussionist from the San Francisco Bay Area. Born with music in his blood, he is the son of founding member of the Santana Band, musician and composer, Jose Chepito Areas—timbalero and conguero. Adrian has played the drums, timbales, bongos, and tumbadoras since he was 1 year old. Adrian's earliest achievements include playing for the opening of Cow Palace in 1976 with Santana at the age of 3. He played drums for the "Just Kidding" program on channel 4, and you can catch him playing timbales with his dad at the 15th anniversary of the Santana band. Adrian has a unique style, giving voice and life to his instruments and adding spice to any melody. He has played and performed with Tito Puente, Carlos "Patato" Valdez, Jerry Gonzalez, Santana, Journey, The Doobie Brothers, The Steve Miller Band, Joe Satriani, Arturo Sandoval, and is currently working with the Gregg Rolie Band (founder of Santana Band and Journey). In addition, Adrian has recorded with prestigious bands such as the Steve Miller Band, Mingus Amungus Live in Cuba, Michael Franti & Spearhead, Braxton Brothers, and The Gregg Rolie Band. Adrian is part of the Project de Congueros with Jaz Sawyer and Javier Navarrette. Adrian has recently recorded on the upcoming Alphonso Johnson solo album (master bassist).