Afro Lounge (2002-2003) fused Afro-Cuban folklore with house beats during its run from 2002 to 2003. This collaboration between DJ Cycle (Erik van Putten), flautist Mark Alban Lotz, and Ariel Bridon Romero brought a fresh take on Afro-Cuban religious music. Both van Putten and Lotz had a long-standing interest in interpreting Afro-Cuban folklore, and when Ariel Romero Bridon—first soloist of the Conjunto Folklorico de Oriente, Santiago de Cuba—joined the group, Afro Lounge was born.

With Afro Lounge, they ventured into new musical territories, reimagining traditional Yoruba melodies from West Africa within the framework of jazzy house music. The dynamic Afro-mix also incorporated Brazilian music, Cuban folklore, and influences from Indian music, creating a vibrant, cross-cultural sound.

Before this project, DJ Cycle and Lotz had previously collaborated in their Shiva’s Lounge ensemble.

Performances:
Concerts in the Netherlands and at Gostenhofer Jazztage 2003 (Germany)