Francisco Mela

Drummer Francisco Mela is a favorite among jazz’s best performers including Chucho Valdés, Joe Lovano, Kenny Barron and McCoy Tyner. Born in 1968 in Bayamo, Cuba, Mela moved to Boston in 2000 to attend Berklee College of Music, where he now teaches. Since then he has become an integral part of Joe Lovano’s quartet, McCoy Tyner’s trio, and Kenny Barron’s trio, and has expanded his vision as a bandleader. In addition he has worked with Esperanza Spaulding, Lionel Loueke, Joanne Brackeen, Jane Bunnett, Anat Cohen, and many others. Mela has released four albums as a leader, all receiving positive critical acclaim. His newest project, “FE,” is with the latest iteration of his Crash Trio with pianist Leo Genovese, bassist Gerald Cannon and special guest John Scofield. Mela has also been working with new rising star Kris Davis.