Joey Pastrana and His Orchestra

**Joey Pastrana and His Orchestra** were a dynamic force in the 1960s and ’70s New York salsa scene, blending fiery Latin rhythms with the urban edge of boogaloo. Led by timbales maestro Joey Pastrana, a Puerto Rican native, the group became known for high-energy tracks that got dancers moving. Their releases like *Hot Pastrana* (1968) and *Let’s Ball* showcased a mix of salsa, soul, and R&B, while fan favorites like *The Real Thing / El Verdadero* cemented their reputation for catchy, dancefloor-ready grooves. Pastrana’s music often celebrated his roots, as heard in *Joey In P.R.* and *Joey En Carnavale*, which leaned into traditional Puerto Rican styles. Though details about the band’s later years are scarce, their recordings remain staples in Latin music history, capturing the raw, vibrant spirit of the era.