Karl Perazzo

Every musician has an idol, a performer or group that embodies what they wish to become. From his childhood in San Francisco, Karl Perazzo wanted to play with Santana. "I used to play with the band when I was younger," he jokes, "but then the needle broke."

However, young Perazzo did have considerable talent, and had played with Cal Tjader, Malo, Ray Obiedo, Prince and Andy Narell by the time he was 12. His life-long dream was realized in 1991 when he joined Santana to play timbales. Perazzo has also performed and recorded with Mariah Carey, Dizzy Gillespie, Phish, The United Nations Orchestra and John Lee Hooker. He also has several side projects which he leads, including the popular Salsa band, Avance.

In addition to performing and recording, Perazzo teaches percussion. Along with Santana conguero and LP artist Raul Rekow, Perazzo starred in LP's popular instructional video From Afro-Cuban to Rock, which breaks down the complex musical rhythms of Cuban percussion. Because of their unique chemistry and infectious teaching style, Perazzo and Rekow are a sure-fire hit with audiences of all ages and backgrounds.

Karl has teamed up with LP to create the LP Karl Perazzo Signature Series Timbales.

Equipment list: LP Karl Perazzo Timbales, LP Galaxy Congas & Bongos, LP Cowbells and LP Jam Blocks

Karl's website is located at: http://www.monarecords.com

To read reviews and hear a sound samples of Karl Perazzo CDs. please visit our CD Review section.