Vinny & Ray

Vinny and Ray Perez are twin brothers, born in the Bronx. Today they live and work in Connecticut. Their love for Latin Music comes from their ethnic background. Singing and dancing was always a part of growing up. During their high school years they began to play their instruments and they loved it! It became part of them just as they became part of their instruments.

They played for different bands until they formed their first band. Their first band consisted of five members and was known as Orquesta Presion They became a local favorite with their original songs and jamming style. They played at block parties, colleges, festivals and dances.

The band branched out and eventually formed Vinny and Ray. The public recognized them by their names so they decided to keep it that way. Vinny and Ray's band have played in venues such as: AFB in Washington, D.C., the Catskills in NY, The International Arts and Idea Festival in New Haven, and the Riverfront Recapture in Hartford. Some of their opening acts were for Tito Puente and Ritchie Havens.

Their musical influence is as varied as their music: Luis Perico Ortiz, Isidro Infante, Eddie Palmieri, Poncho Sanchez, Tito Rodriguez, Tito Nieves, are some of the artists that influenced them.

Their unique style in playing and breathing, Latin music transfers to the audience and you can see the synergy between the musicians and the public. Their performance always involves solos, percussion jams, big band sounds and a smooth, eclectic stage presence. —Courtesy Calabash Music