Omar Ríos Meléndez

Omar Ríos Meléndez is a talented Nicaraguan guitarist and composer now calling London home, where he's been lighting up stages for the past few years. Picking up the guitar at just 11 years old, he's built a 15-year career gigging across the globe—from Nicaragua and Colombia to Russia, the US, Belgium, Spain, Costa Rica, Honduras, and the UK—drawing vibes from flamenco, rock, jazz, fusion, Latin American sounds, and beyond. With a degree in music education from Nicaragua's Polytechnic University (Upoli), he's dropped gems like his debut solo instrumental album *Free Soul* and the recent EP *Aurora*, plus killer collabs at spots like Union Chapel and Jazz Cafe alongside folks like Mayito Rivera and pianist Alex Wilson.

His latest release, *The Art of Deep Connection* (2026) with Alex Wilson on Alex Wilson Records, is a fiery duo effort blending his originals like "Nomad's Prayer" with covers of hits such as "La Mora Limpia," "Yo No Sé Mañana," and "Alforja Campesina"—all infused with heartfelt improv and that Nicaraguan soul. Whether in a trio weaving folk, flamenco, Latin jazz, and more, or as a solo force, Omar's all about deep, nomadic storytelling through his strings.