Jazz Recording Studio in Mexico City
+ Remote Mixing and Mastering Services
Specialized in Jazz, World Music, Acoustic and Improvised Music
CREDITS / DISCOGRAPHY
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PHOTO GALLERY
ABOUT JAN BÖKER (Producer)
Jan is a music producer and mixing engineer whom artists and producers turn to for the realization of Jazz, World Music, and other “organic” music projects.
His work is centered on supporting emerging musicians, taking on the role of a catalyst for creative opportunities. He dedicates most of his time to mixing, through which he brings his own aesthetic vision to each project. The result is a sound that musicians describe as natural, open, and immersive.
To achieve this, Jan combines technical expertise, experience, and a classically oriented sonic sensibility—characteristic of a producer born in the 1970s—with cutting-edge technology, including equipment and tools from Neumann, Beyerdynamic, SSL, UAD, and others.
He works from a remarkable Mix Room specifically designed for an ergonomic workflow, one he has been refining since 2023, the year he completed his Music Production studies at SAE Institute.
You can book a session via SoundBetter (link below)
TESTIMONIALS
ROSTER / PROJECTS
Alan Fajardo is one of the most exciting young talents on the contemporary Mexican jazz scene. A versatile musician who is equally proficient on both trumpet and drums, Fajardo is also a skilled music producer.
He performs regularly at jazz clubs and festivals throughout Mexico.
Fajardo has developed an outstanding collaboration with Pesticide Free Music, where he brings together musicians from diverse genres to create innovative experimental recordings.
In late 2024, an innovative jazz-rock fusion album came to life at the Pesticide Free Music studio. The project featured a carefully selected ensemble of exceptional musicians led by Alan Fajardo, including Grammy-winning saxophonist Adrian Terrazas-Gonzalez, whose distinctive style brought depth and originality to the record. The musicians, renowned for their virtuosity and extensive experience in both jazz and rock, gathered late at night to capture the perfect energy of improvisation and raw emotion, free from the constraints typically associated with commercial studio environments.
The sessions unfolded in a relaxed yet highly focused atmosphere, allowing for spontaneous and creative performances that would not have been possible in a more rigid setting. The recording process was meticulous, with each instrument captured in pristine quality through high-end microphones carefully selected for the project.
«Los Pablos» are a jazz trio based in Mexico City that has just recorded their third album at Pesticide Free Music. Their distinctive and refined style has earned critical acclaim. The trio, which has been performing since 2018, is well known for its musical excellence and frequent performances throughout Mexico.
The group’s members are Pablo Loaiza (drums), Pablo Castro (piano), and Pablo Flores (double bass), who together form one of the most exciting jazz ensembles in the country.
Jahaziel Arrocha is a Panamanian tenor saxophonist renowned for his exceptional, gritty tone and technical mastery, drawing strong comparisons to the great classic saxophonists of earlier generations. A virtuosic musician, Arrocha has been awarded prestigious scholarships from Berklee College of Music, further solidifying his professional career.
Alejandro Campos Bonilla is a distinguished full professor at Mexico’s Escuela Superior de Música (ESM), where he directs the institution’s jazz big band. A key figure in the development of Mexican jazz, Campos founded the iconic jazz ensemble Sacbé in the 1980s, a group that remains one of the most influential bands in the history of the country’s jazz scene. His 2000s album Caminata Nocturna is widely regarded as a landmark of Mexican jazz and featured notable musicians such as Hernán Hecht and Nicolás Santella, both emerging talents at the time.
A prolific artist, Campos records regularly with his label, Pesticide Free Music, releasing jazz and experimental compositions nearly every two months. He frequently collaborates with former students, including acclaimed musicians such as Rodrigo Castelán, Uriel Rodríguez, and Hugo Páez. Known for his versatility and innovative spirit, Campos continues to push the boundaries of the Mexican jazz scene.
Rodrigo “Grillo” Gasca (Grillasca) is a Mexican composer, pianist, and multidisciplinary artist based in Mexico City. Trained as a composer and pianist, he holds a degree from the Universidad de las Américas, where he developed a broad artistic perspective that bridges contemporary composition, improvisation, electroacoustic music, and interdisciplinary collaboration. [youtube.com]
As a composer, Grillo has cultivated a distinctive voice that explores the intersection of acoustic performance, electronic media, film, and experimental sound practices. His work reflects a deep interest in contemporary musical languages while remaining accessible through expressive musical storytelling and innovative sonic textures. [livemusicproject.org], [campaignlp…ontact.com]
Grillo is also the founder and artistic force behind Casa Patricio, an independent cultural space in Mexico City dedicated to contemporary music, experimental art, interdisciplinary collaboration, and creative exchange. Through Casa Patricio, he has helped establish a platform where composers, improvisers, visual artists, filmmakers, and performers can develop and present new work outside traditional institutional frameworks. [mx.linkedin.com], [livemusicproject.org]
His growing international profile has led to participation in projects involving prominent contemporary music organizations and artists. His compositions have appeared in programs presented by Composers Concordance, one of New York’s leading contemporary music organizations, alongside works by internationally recognized composers from the United States, Costa Rica, and Mexico. These programs have been presented across multiple countries, including performances at Casa Patricio and the Centro Mexicano para la Música y las Artes Sonoras (CMMAS). [livemusicproject.org], [campaignlp…ontact.com]
As a pianist, Grillo combines technical fluency with a strong improvisational spirit, drawing inspiration from classical music, contemporary composition, jazz, and experimental practices. His performances often blur the boundaries between composition and spontaneity, creating immersive musical experiences that challenge conventional categories. [youtube.com], [livemusicproject.org]
At Pesticide Free Music, it has been a privilege to collaborate with Grillo Gasca on projects that reflect his creative vision and commitment to artistic innovation. His work represents a unique synthesis of composition, performance, experimentation, and cultural leadership, making him one of the most distinctive voices in Mexico City’s contemporary creative music community
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Jerónimo Zoe is an exceptional composer and tabla virtuoso, widely recognized for his influential leadership within the world music scene.
Through one of his projects, Pesticide Free Music collaborated in the production of Colectivo Novo Zambo, a vibrant fusion of diverse musical styles available on all major streaming platforms. The project features Jerónimo Zoe on tabla and calabash, alongside a talented ensemble that includes Sergio Medrano (requinto jarana), Juan Cubas F. (leona), José Páblo Jiménez (kamancheh), Felipe Deckers (guitar and tiple), and Alex Basasa (accordion), among others.
More recently, Jerónimo has collaborated in the studio with outstanding violinists and cellists, recording captivating world music projects. Among the most notable collaborators are Jonathan Lewis (violin) and Felipe Ferit (flutes).
His latest work is set to be released soon under the name Ashwatta Ensemble.
Dante Pimentel is a charismatic musician, composer, bassist, banjo player, and the leader of La Quinta. At Pesticide Free Music, he recorded a renowned piece, a Colombian 6/8 cumbia titled “El Pescador.” The track has already been mastered and is scheduled for release in the near future.
«COME JAZZ»
It is the Mexican Jazz Collective, led by Ángel Paris García, double bassist of the Orquesta Típica de la Ciudad de México. The ensemble recorded its debut album at Pesticide Free Music in April 2024.
Bringing together talented musicians from Mexico’s vibrant jazz community, the collective represents a fresh and dynamic voice in the country’s contemporary jazz scene. Their first recording at Pesticide Free Music captures the group’s artistic vision and commitment to exploring original compositions and collaborative musical expression.
Remi Álvarez is a distinguished Mexican saxophonist, composer, and educator known for his significant contributions to free jazz and experimental music. Born in Mexico City, he began his musical training by studying flute at the National Conservatory of Music. He later taught himself to play the saxophone and made his professional debut with the Mexican Jazz Quartet in 1984. Álvarez further developed his skills in composition and improvisation at the Creative Music Studio in New York, where he studied with leading figures such as Anthony Braxton, George Lewis, Roscoe Mitchell, and Don Cherry. He also earned a degree in jazz from the Escuela Superior de Música between 1982 and 1987 and studied with Steve Lacy in Paris in 1988.
Since 1991, Álvarez has served as a professor of saxophone and jazz at the National School of Music of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM). His most notable ensembles include Cráneo de Jade and Astillero, both of which have performed at prestigious events such as the Festival Internacional Cervantino and New York’s Vision Festival. Álvarez’s discography includes collaborations with internationally acclaimed artists and reflects his innovative approach to improvisation and contemporary music-making.
Sugipapa is a Mexico City–based trio that has recently recorded its debut album at Pesticide Free Music Studio. Known for their playful musical approach and outstanding sonic quality, the group blends creativity, sensitivity, and technical excellence into a distinctive and engaging sound.
The trio features David Pang (guitar), Pablo Castro (piano), and Reona Sugimoto (drums). Together, they create a dynamic musical dialogue characterized by expressive improvisation, rich textures, and a fresh, imaginative spirit that reflects the vitality of Mexico City’s contemporary jazz scene.
Kelvin Christiane
He composes for his big band, and Pesticide Free Music has had the privilege of recording, mixing, and mastering all 14 compositions produced to date.
The ensemble features an outstanding roster of musicians, including Kelvin Christiane (composer and tenor saxophone), Alan Fajardo (trumpet), Jahaziel Arrocha (tenor saxophone), Daniel Paz (clarinet), Santiago Von Sternfels (alto saxophone), Diego Rofer (baritone saxophone), Abraham Vázquez (trombone), Alex Ramírez (bass trombone), Alexander Orozco (trumpet), Carlos Torres and David Pang (guitars), Clement Amirault (trombone), Darío González (bass), Frida Hidalgo (flute), Jesús Ch. (piano), Luis Meneses (trombone), Sebastián Soto (drums), Víctor Fuentes (trumpet), and Valeria Dávila (clarinet and vocals).
Trio.Org – They are an organ jazz trio consisting of Uriel Rodríguez on drums, Rafael Vigo on guitar, and Brandon Hernández on organ. Their sound is unmistakable—powerful, dynamic, and capable of filling any space. Combining remarkable intensity with a playful approach to both classic repertoire and more experimental material, the trio is impossible to overlook.
Their collaboration with Pesticide Free Music dates back to early 2023, when they recorded their first single, “Muuuonk,” an original composition by Uriel Rodríguez. The piece is a demanding yet exquisite example of free jazz, showcasing the group’s adventurous spirit and technical prowess. They also recorded “Three Card Molly,” a classic composition by Elvin Jones, which has subsequently received radio airplay on multiple occasions.
With their distinctive blend of groove, improvisational freedom, and expressive energy, the trio continues to establish itself as one of the most compelling organ jazz projects on the contemporary Mexican jazz scene.
Alonso Umaña is a distinguished jazz drummer and composer whose work has earned recognition within Mexico’s contemporary jazz scene. Pesticide Free Music and Alonso share a common vision regarding the development and promotion of jazz in Mexico, creating a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration.
Through this partnership, Pesticide Free Music has worked with Alonso on live recording projects and has helped bring his compositions to a wider audience. Their shared commitment to artistic excellence, creative independence, and the growth of original jazz has made the collaboration both productive and meaningful, contributing to the visibility of Alonso’s music and to the broader jazz community in Mexico and the US.
The ensemble’s members—Adrián Terrazas-González (woodwinds), Oso Avalle (bass), Santiago Corona (keyboards), and Lu Rodríguez (drums)—recorded a new album at Pesticide Free Music titled Amigosos, featuring original compositions by each member of the band.
Bringing together musicians with diverse backgrounds and a shared passion for creative exploration, the quartet crafted a recording that highlights the unique voice of each composer while maintaining a cohesive ensemble sound. The album showcases a rich blend of contemporary jazz, improvisation, and genre-crossing influences, reflecting the collective artistry of the group.
Amigosos was released in late February 2025, marking an important milestone for both the ensemble and its ongoing collaboration with Pesticide Free Music.
Jorge Lanz es es un pianista neoclásico de Puebla que ha grabado su primer EP en Pesticide Free Music.
Vico Díaz is a composer and leona player dedicated to exploring Mexican traditional music in search of new sounds and creative pathways, both in musical expression and in the development of traditional instruments. He is recognized as a pioneer in adapting the leona—the bass instrument of the traditional music of Veracruz, Mexico—to contemporary musical contexts, expanding its possibilities far beyond its conventional role within folklore.
A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Díaz has developed a distinctive artistic voice that bridges tradition and innovation, bringing the rich heritage of Mexican music into dialogue with modern compositional and performance practices.
He is currently recording his album BACH at Pesticide Free Music, a project that reflects his ongoing commitment to experimentation, musical craftsmanship, and the reimagining of traditional instruments within contemporary music.
Kushmik is a multicultural musical project formed in August 2024 by musicians with backgrounds spanning a wide range of genres, including salsa, merengue, jazz, timba, ska, and other contemporary Latin styles. Bringing together artists from Mexico, Cuba, Venezuela, and Colombia, the band represents a vibrant fusion of musical traditions and cultural perspectives.
Their music speaks to every kind of listener and every kind of emotion: love, heartbreak, protest, freedom, friendship, courage, and the celebration of life itself. For every feeling, there is a song. Through infectious rhythms, thoughtful lyrics, and dynamic performances, Kushmik seeks to connect deeply with audiences while celebrating the diversity of the human experience.
Founded by Erick Sono Dread, the group embraces a spirit of unity, creativity, and cultural exchange, crafting music that is both entertaining and meaningful. Their unique blend of influences reflects the rich musical heritage of Latin America while pointing toward new artistic horizons.
Rebeca “Becks” Bustamante is a singer and violist whose musical training was developed primarily at the LaFaro Jazz Institute and the Escuela Superior de Música of the National Institute of Fine Arts (INBAL). She has performed on numerous stages and at cultural festivals throughout Mexico alongside renowned musicians from the country’s jazz scene.
Most recently, she was awarded First Prize in the “Premio Joven de Jazz” (Young Jazz Award) presented by the Orquesta Nacional de Jazz de México, a recognition that highlights her exceptional talent and growing impact as an emerging artist.
Below is a generous testimonial from Maestro Agustín Bernal, renowned double bassist:
Daniel Paz is a Mexican composer, clarinetist, and improviser whose work bridges contemporary jazz, free improvisation, reggae-infused textures, and experimental music. Based in Mexico City, he has performed at festivals and venues across Mexico, Costa Rica, Belize, the United States, and Colombia, collaborating with projects such as Tres Tristes Tangos, Ficus Trío, Polka Madre, Realidub, and Ojos de Gato, as well as theater and clown productions. [danielpaz….ndcamp.com], [danielpaz….ndcamp.com]
Paz has developed a distinctive artistic voice centered on original composition and spontaneous creation. His ensemble, Todos Queremos Paz (“We All Want Peace”), explores a broad musical spectrum ranging from contemporary jazz and reggae to avant-garde improvisation through original works that emphasize emotional expression and collective interaction. [jazzmx.com], [danielpaz….ndcamp.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Daniel Paz recorded two albums of original compositions with Todos Queremos Paz. The studio handled the production, recording, mixing, and mastering of both releases. The first, Todos Queremos Paz: Vol. Verde (2025), consists of six compositions inspired by reggae and jazz, with improvisation playing a central role throughout the project. The second, Todos Queremos Paz: Vol. Negro (2025), continues the concept by exploring more complex emotional landscapes, including loss, heartbreak, chaos, war, and the challenges of the human condition. [danielpaz….ndcamp.com] [danielpaz….ndcamp.com], [prostudiomasters.com]
Featuring collaborators such as Santiago Von Sternenfels (alto saxophone), Silvestre Villarruel (piano), Rodo Ocampo (drums), and Alejandro Martínez (double bass), these recordings showcase Paz’s commitment to innovative composition, improvisation, and ensemble interplay.
Kunt Vargas is an acclaimed trombonist, composer, improviser, archaeologist, and visual artist originally from the Mixe community of Santa María Tlahuitoltepec, Oaxaca, Mexico. A native speaker of Ayuujk (Mixe), he has dedicated himself to music since childhood and has developed a distinctive artistic voice that bridges indigenous traditions, jazz improvisation, experimental music, and contemporary art. [casawabi.org], [nolapoetry.com]
Recognized for his innovative approach to the trombone, Vargas explores the instrument beyond conventional techniques, incorporating unconventional materials and extended-performance methods in search of new sonic possibilities. His work is deeply informed by the landscapes, rituals, myths, and cultural heritage of the Sierra Mixe region, resulting in a highly personal musical language that combines free improvisation, jazz, and experimental sound art. [nolapoetry.com], [stringedcr…vatory.org]
Throughout his career, he has collaborated with a wide range of artists and projects, including Africa Express alongside Damon Albarn, Ensemble Kafka, Cinema Domingo Orchestra with Steven Brown, the Oaxaca Jazz Big Band, and improvisational collaborations with notable Mexican experimental musicians such as Germán Bringas, Roberto Morales, and Antonio Russek. [nolapoetry.com], [stringedcr…vatory.org], [casawabi.org]
His current musical projects include the Kunt Vargas Trio, an improvisational jazz ensemble; Los Pream, a genre-defying group that blends Mixe traditions with jazz, punk, and world music influences; and a variety of solo experimental performances. [casawabi.org], [invencible.net], [youtube.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Kunt Vargas is developing and recording original compositions that showcase his unique artistic vision and mastery of improvisation. His music represents a powerful meeting point between ancestral traditions and contemporary creativity, making him one of the most distinctive voices to emerge from Oaxaca’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Carolina Mercado is a Mexican tenor saxophonist, composer, and improviser from Guadalajara, Jalisco, recognized as one of the most exciting voices of a new generation of Latin American jazz artists. Her music combines contemporary jazz with Latin American influences, creating a sound that is both deeply personal and stylistically adventurous. [selmer.fr], [museotamayo.org]
Mercado began her jazz studies at JazzUV and later continued her training at the LaFaro Jazz Institute under the guidance of renowned bassist Agustín Bernal. She further distinguished herself through participation in prestigious programs and workshops, including the Tónica International Jazz Seminar, the Xalapa International Jazz Encounter, and the Keep an Eye program at the Amsterdam Conservatory. [selmer.fr], [terceraraiz.pro]
In 2017, she was awarded a highly competitive scholarship from the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation, allowing her to pursue studies at The New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York, where she earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Jazz Performance. Throughout her artistic development, she has studied and worked with internationally acclaimed musicians including Anat Cohen, Miguel Zenón, Aaron Goldberg, Matt Penman, Chris Cheek, John Ellis, Reggie Workman, and Steve Cardenas, among others. [selmer.fr], [museotamayo.org]
A recipient of numerous awards, Mercado won the Pan-American Jazz Saxophone Competition of UNAM (becoming the first woman to win the jazz category), earned First Prize at the Young Jazz Award organized by the National Jazz Orchestra of Mexico (ONJMX), and was recognized as a winner of Yamaha’s She’s Got the Groove competition. [selmer.fr], [museotamayo.org]
She has performed extensively throughout Mexico as well as internationally in New York, Paris, Amsterdam, Bern, Tel Aviv, Spain, Peru, Colombia, and the United States, appearing at major festivals, jazz clubs, and cultural events. She has also been a member of prominent ensembles including the National Jazz Orchestra of Mexico, Guacamole, and Four Paths, while continuing to develop original projects under her own name. [selmer.fr], [museotamayo.org]
At Pesticide Free Music, Carolina Mercado has collaborated on the recording of original music that highlights her expressive tone, sophisticated compositions, and modern approach to improvisation. Her work reflects a rare combination of technical mastery, creativity, and artistic vision, positioning her among the leading figures of contemporary Mexican jazz.
Eray Farrera is a Mexican saxophonist, composer, and bandleader whose original music reflects a deep commitment to contemporary jazz, improvisation, and creative exploration. Originally from Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas, Farrera has emerged as one of the most promising young voices in the Mexican jazz scene, earning recognition for both his expressive playing and his compelling original compositions. [soundcloud.com], [jazzmx.com]
Over the years, he has led a variety of ensembles, including the Eray Farrera Quartet and Quintet, presenting original works influenced by modern jazz innovators such as Immanuel Wilkins, Braxton Cook, Marquis Hill, and Kenny Garrett. His performances showcase a balance of strong melodic writing, rhythmic sophistication, and adventurous improvisation. [youtube.com], [youtube.com]
Farrera has been featured at important jazz venues and concert series in Mexico City, where he has performed alongside distinguished musicians including Pablo Castro (piano), Israel Cupich (double bass), and Fernando Herrera (drums). JazzMX has described him as one of the most talented and outstanding young musicians currently active in the country’s jazz community. [jazzmx.com], [fundacions…astian.org]
His work as a composer is characterized by a modern sensibility that combines lyrical melodies, open improvisation, and contemporary harmonic language. In addition to his live performances, he maintains an active presence through independent recordings and audiovisual releases that document the evolution of his artistic voice. [youtube.com], [soundcloud.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Eray Farrera has collaborated on the recording of original compositions that highlight his distinctive sound as both a saxophonist and composer. His music reflects the energy and creativity of a new generation of Mexican jazz artists while remaining firmly rooted in the improvisational tradition that defines the genre.
Christian Balderas is a distinguished Mexican pianist, composer, producer, and educator from Mexico City, widely recognized for his innovative approach to jazz and contemporary music. A graduate of the Escuela Superior de Música (ESM), he furthered his studies through the School for Improvisational Music (SIM) program at the Brooklyn Conservatory in New York. In 2011, he was awarded the prestigious FONCA Jóvenes Creadores Fellowship, recognizing him as one of Mexico’s most promising young artists. [christianb…lderas.com], [christianb…lderas.com]
Over the course of his career, Balderas has collaborated with numerous leading musicians from Mexico and abroad, performing at major festivals and venues including the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, Querétaro Jazz Festival, Córdoba Jazz Festival, SXSW in Austin, Texas, Baja Jazz Festival, MJazz, and Les Escales Festival in Saint-Nazaire, France. His music has earned him a reputation as one of the most creative and forward-thinking pianists of his generation. [christianb…lderas.com], [christianb…lderas.com]
As a bandleader and composer, Balderas has released several acclaimed projects, including T’orus, Donut Shaped Universe, Jvne, Legado, and Organ Latin Soul. His music blends modern jazz, contemporary improvisation, electronic textures, Afro-Latin influences, and experimental elements, creating a highly personal and distinctive voice. [christianb…lderas.com], [christianb…ndcamp.com], [milenio.com]
One of his most celebrated recent works, Legado, is an intimate and deeply personal album inspired by themes of loss, family, memory, and renewal. The project reflects pivotal moments in his life and demonstrates his ability to transform profound personal experiences into compelling musical narratives. [zona-acustica.com], [youtube.com]
Balderas is also an accomplished Hammond B3 organist. His project Organ Latin Soul pays tribute to the organ-driven sounds of jazz, soul, mambo, and Afro-Latin music, reinterpreting these traditions through a contemporary Mexican lens. The project has been praised for its rich analog aesthetic and vibrant fusion of jazz and Latin rhythms. [milenio.com]
In addition to his performing career, Christian Balderas serves as an educator at SAE Mexico, where he shares his knowledge and experience with the next generation of musicians. [christianb…lderas.com], [christianb…ndcamp.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Christian Balderas has collaborated on the recording of original music that showcases his distinctive compositional voice, virtuoso pianism, and commitment to sonic excellence. His work continues to expand the possibilities of contemporary Mexican jazz while maintaining a deep connection to its rich musical traditions.
Israel Cupich is one of Mexico’s most respected jazz double bassists, composers, producers, and cultural promoters. A graduate of the Escuela Superior de Música (INBA), he has been leading original musical projects since 2005 and has become a central figure in the development and promotion of the Mexican jazz scene. [jazzmx.com], [israelcupi…ogspot.com]
A highly accomplished performer and bandleader, Cupich has released four albums under his own name, including Hecho en Casa, La Danza, and recordings with the acclaimed Blanch::Cupich::Nandayapa Trio. His work blends modern jazz, original composition, and adventurous improvisation, reflecting a deep commitment to artistic creativity and ensemble interaction. [jazzmx.com], [mx.linkedin.com]
Throughout his career, he has performed at many of Mexico’s most important festivals, including the Festival Internacional Cervantino, JazzUV, Eurojazz, the Riviera Maya Jazz Festival, the Querétaro Jazz Festival, and the Mazunte Jazz Festival. Internationally, he has appeared at the North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam, the FIMU Festival in France, and the Lille Piano Festival, among many others. [jazzmx.com]
Cupich has shared the stage with a remarkable list of internationally renowned artists, including Gilad Hekselman, Greg Osby, David Virelles, Joe Farnsworth, Gerald Cleaver, Joan Chamorro, Davy Mooney, Stephane Tsapis, Barry Green, and many of the leading figures of the Mexican jazz community such as Magos Herrera, Alex Mercado, Iraida Noriega, Horacio Franco, Francisco Lelo de Larrea, and Alejandro Campos. [jazzmx.com], [israelcupi…ogspot.com]
Beyond his achievements as a musician, Cupich is widely recognized as the founder and director of JazzMx, a collective established in 2014 with the mission of strengthening, promoting, and dignifying the Mexican jazz community. Through JazzMx, he has organized concerts, festivals, educational activities, and collaborations with international artists, creating one of the most influential platforms for jazz in Mexico. [jazzmx.com], [zona-acustica.com], [maremotom.com]
His contributions have earned him important recognitions, including grants from FONCA and the Mexico City Ministry of Culture, supporting both his artistic and cultural initiatives. [jazzmx.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Israel Cupich has collaborated on the recording of original music that showcases his signature sound, sophisticated compositional approach, and exceptional musicianship. As both an artist and cultural leader, he continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of jazz in Mexico while fostering new opportunities for emerging generations of musicians
Toto Merino is a Mexican bassist, composer, improviser, arranger, producer, and educator originally from Erongarícuaro, Michoacán, and currently based in Mexico City. Largely self-taught, he has developed a distinctive artistic voice through independent study, extensive collaboration, and a lifelong commitment to musical exploration. [totomerino…ndcamp.com], [soundcloud.com]
Known for his adventurous approach to music, Merino moves fluidly between contemporary jazz, free improvisation, experimental music, and multidisciplinary artistic projects. His work is driven by a fascination with spontaneity, collective creativity, and the search for new musical languages. An advocate for artistic freedom and genre-crossing collaboration, he continually explores innovative approaches to both the electric bass and the broader possibilities of sound. [soundcloud.com], [elotrorock…xicano.com]
Throughout his career, he has participated in numerous projects spanning a wide range of styles, including Los Brasstards, Turbochango, Mekanik Komandoh, Orixá Sound, Chool Quartet, Kali Yuga, Hala Ken Orquesta, and collaborations with artists from Mexico’s experimental and jazz scenes. He is also active as a session musician, composer for stage productions, and educator. [soundcloud.com], [elotrorock…xicano.com]
His flagship project, the Toto Merino Trio, was formed in 2023 and features Pablo Castro on piano and Rodo Ocampo on drums. The trio blends original compositions, jazz standards, free improvisation, avant-garde concepts, and influences from diverse musical traditions into a highly interactive and spontaneous performance language. [elotrorock…xicano.com], [youtube.com]
In 2025, the trio recorded Visitantes, its first album of entirely original compositions, at Pesticide Free Music. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Jan Boker, the album showcases Merino’s compositional vision and the group’s commitment to collective improvisation. The release features original works such as El Blues del Visitante, Quasar, Paciencia, and Chimborazo, drawing inspiration from themes of impermanence, human experience, and the beauty of spontaneous creation. [totomerino…ndcamp.com], [elotrorock…xicano.com]
Merino has also studied with influential musicians including Remi Álvarez, Rosino Serrano, Aarón Cruz, and Jeff Berlin, further enriching his artistic perspective while maintaining a strongly independent and personal musical approach. [elotrorock…xicano.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Toto Merino’s work stands as a remarkable example of contemporary creative jazz—combining sophisticated composition, fearless improvisation, and a deep commitment to artistic authenticity. His music continues to push boundaries while remaining rooted in communication, imagination, and collective expression.
Ziran is a young and emerging jazz ensemble from Mexico City, formed by a close-knit group of musicians united by friendship, creativity, and a shared passion for contemporary jazz and improvisation. The group represents a new generation of Mexican artists exploring original sounds while remaining deeply connected to the spirit of collective musical expression. [youtube.com], [youtube.com]
The ensemble is composed of Uriel Duque (piano), Naima Bobadilla (voice and piano), Arihoa Calleja (guitar), Itzcoatl Vargas (bass), and Gael Alvarado (drums). The musicians met through Mexico City’s jazz community and are proudly associated with the Academia de Jazz, where they have developed their artistic identity through performance and collaboration. [youtube.com], [youtube.com]
Ziran’s music combines original compositions, modern jazz language, improvisation, and a youthful sense of exploration. Their performances are characterized by strong ensemble interaction, expressive melodies, and an openness to experimentation that allows each musician’s voice to contribute to the group’s evolving sound. [youtube.com], [youtube.com]
The group has presented original pieces such as “Ritual” and “Ballena,” showcasing a distinctive musical personality that blends lyricism, spontaneity, and contemporary influences. [youtube.com], [soundcloud.com]
At Pesticide Free Music, Ziran recorded live improvisations and original material, capturing the freshness and authenticity of a young ensemble at the beginning of a promising artistic journey. Their recordings reflect the band’s adventurous spirit, strong musical chemistry, and commitment to creating original music. [soundcloud.com], [soundcloud.com]
As one of the exciting new voices emerging from Mexico City’s vibrant jazz scene, Ziran represents the creativity, openness, and collaborative energy that continue to shape the future of Mexican jazz.
Isaiah Collier is an internationally acclaimed saxophonist, composer, multi-instrumentalist, educator, and bandleader from Chicago, Illinois, widely regarded as one of the most important voices of his generation in contemporary jazz. Deeply rooted in the traditions of spiritual jazz while boldly pushing the music into new territory, Collier has earned a reputation for his powerful sound, visionary compositions, and electrifying live performances. [harristhea…hicago.org], [cso.org]
Born and raised on Chicago’s South Side, Collier began playing the saxophone at the age of eleven and quickly emerged as a prodigious talent. He developed through Chicago’s rich jazz ecosystem, studying at the Jazz Institute of Chicago and the Chicago High School for the Arts, while receiving mentorship from respected figures such as Ari Brown, Willie Pickens, Ernest Dawkins, Antonio Hart, Bennie Maupin, and Bobby Watson. [harristhea…hicago.org], [cso.org]
Collier first gained international recognition through his ensemble Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few, whose groundbreaking recordings and performances established him as a leading force in modern creative jazz. His acclaimed albums include Return of the Black Emperor (2018), Cosmic Transitions (2021), I AM BEYOND (2022), Parallel Universe (2023), The Almighty (2024), and The World Is On Fire (2024). [allaboutjazz.com], [chicagopre…hicago.edu], [en.wikipedia.org]
His album The Almighty was selected by The New York Times as one of the year’s best jazz recordings, while the Chicago Tribune named him Jazz Artist of the Year for 2024. He has also received numerous honors, including DownBeat Magazine’s Rising Star Awards for both tenor and soprano saxophone, recognition as one of DownBeat’s «25 for the Future», and selection as a Steve Jobs Fellow. [chicagopre…hicago.edu], [mmmusicagency.com], [cso.org]
Drawing inspiration from masters such as John Coltrane, Pharoah Sanders, Sun Ra, Gene Ammons, Roscoe Mitchell, and Chicago’s AACM tradition, Collier combines deep historical awareness with a fearless commitment to innovation. His music explores spirituality, Black history, improvisation, social consciousness, and collective expression while remaining rooted in the highest levels of musicianship. [harristhea…hicago.org], [cso.org]
Throughout his career, Collier has collaborated with a remarkable range of artists, including Ambrose Akinmusire, Craig Taborn, Billy Hart, Marshall Allen, Denardo Coleman, Nicole Mitchell, Randy Brecker, Billy Harper, Kahil El’Zabar, Makaya McCraven, and Marquis Hill. He is also a proud member of Chicago’s legendary Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), one of the most influential organizations in the history of creative music. [cso.org]
At Pesticide Free Music, it has been an honor to welcome and collaborate with an artist of Isaiah Collier’s stature. His music embodies the highest ideals of creative jazz: technical mastery, spiritual depth, historical awareness, and fearless artistic exploration. As one of the leading saxophonists of the contemporary international jazz scene, Collier continues to inspire audiences around the world while expanding the possibilities of modern improvised music.
Juan Pablo Martínez is a Mexican organist, pianist, composer, and improviser whose work draws from jazz, Latin American music, and contemporary improvisational traditions. Recognized for his expressive touch and deep understanding of the organ’s rich sonic possibilities, Martínez has developed a distinctive musical voice that blends groove, harmonic sophistication, and creative spontaneity.
As both a performer and composer, he has participated in a variety of collaborative projects, bringing a unique perspective to ensemble playing through his mastery of keyboard instruments. His approach combines respect for the jazz tradition with an openness to experimentation, resulting in performances that are both dynamic and deeply engaging.
At Pesticide Free Music, Juan Pablo Martínez has collaborated on the recording of original music that highlights his versatility as an organist and improviser. His contributions bring warmth, depth, and unmistakable character to every recording, demonstrating why the organ remains one of the most powerful and expressive instruments in modern jazz.
Through his ongoing artistic development and commitment to creative music-making, Martínez continues to establish himself as an important voice within Mexico’s contemporary jazz community.
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