Orquesta Huambaly

Orquesta Huambaly is a Chilean band formed in 1954, blending tropical music and jazz into a vibrant, danceable style that helped shape the tropical music scene in Chile. Originally named "Uambalí" after a small village near Chillán, the group evolved into "Orquesta Huambaly" under the suggestion of guitarist Caupolicán Montoya, also known as Jack Brown. Their first recordings with Odeon Records in 1956 quickly gained them popularity in Santiago’s nightlife, and soon, they were regulars on local radio stations like Minería, Cooperativa, and Corporación. In 1959, Orquesta Huambaly made history as the first Chilean band to tour Europe, performing alongside luminaries like Édith Piaf, Gilbert Bécaud, and Charles Aznavour. As the lineup shifted, the group faced challenges, leading to an initial disbandment in 1964. However, in 2014, jazz saxophonist Marcos Aldana, son of original member "Kiko" Aldana, revived Orquesta Huambaly with a new ensemble, transcribing original songs and bringing the classic sound to a new generation. The band’s legacy continues with compilations like 100 Éxitos Inolvidables de la Huambaly (2006) and new releases that honor their original, unmistakable sound.

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