Conjunto 23 (pronounced “cone-hoon-toe vain-tee-tres”) is essentially a traditional Cuban band with some special Philadelphia twists: while their old-school sound is as swinging as the likes of Compay Segundo or Ibrahim Ferrer, their interest in jazz, soul, and the more modern sounds of Cuban timba (also read: “freaky, funky, no-holds-barred Cuban salsa”) gives the group a fresh, tight sound.

Founded as a quartet in 2001 by David Garlitz (tres, vocals), Jim Jordan (bass, vocals), Robin Moore (percussion, guitar, trumpet, and vocals), and Scott MacDonald (bongó, vocals), the group has performed concerts, given masterclasses, hosted dances, and performed for private functions up and down the East Coast.