Bay Area panman Derek Smith released a new CD this year entitled 'Pan Muntuno'.
The CD features: Derek Smith tenor, double second and triple cello steel pans,drums (5, 6, 10), congas, percussion* Kevin Di Noto, double second steel pans (1, 2), congas (3)* Mario Flores, congas (1, 7)* Murray Low, piano (6, 7, 10)* Russell Ives, mandolin (9)* Ron Work, guitar (2, 4)* Mike Abraham (8, 11)* Mike Shannon, drums* Aaron Germain, bass
Derek Smith began playing percussion as a teen in Modesto, California, continuing his education in Arcata, California. He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in music, with an emphasis on percussion including steel pan and vibraphone.
He studied and performed with Eugene Novotney and the Humboldt Calypso Band before moving to Santa Cruz, California in 1996.Upon arrival in Santa Cruz, Smith founded the band Pankind.
Quickly, the band's presence in the area brought about a popular following. Smith accumulated more rhythmic knowledge by traveling to Trinidad, Cuba and Puerto Rico. During his time in Trinidad, he performed in the national "Panorama" competition with the 100-member steelband "Starlift", under the direction of the famed steel pan arranger Ray Holman.
Now residing in Berkeley, California, Smith finds himself driving throughout the state performing for audiences and venues of all types including clubs, festivals, weddings, and parties. Smith's recording experience includes appearances on various recordings that also include Pete Escovedo, Joe Craven, Norton Buffalo, and Helcio Milito.
He has also shared the stage with Andy Narell, Mario Flores, Danjuma Adamu, and other well-known San Francisco Bay Area musicians.
Smith's latest CD release, "Pan Montuno" is now available online and at concerts. His band will follow up the recording with a series of performances in several states this year. You can find more information about CD purchases, performance schedule or booking by visiting: www.dereksmithmusic.com
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