Born in Cuba, brought up in New York City, bass player and singer-songwriter Niño Torrente grew up in the era of funk. He studied at Jazzmobile in East Harlem and with the jazz guitarist Emily Remler. In his teens he formed a partnership with the singer-songwriter and guitarist Ralph Nelson. Together they wrote songs which they played with their bands, The Flames, in New York, and later, Live Wire, in Northern California. Niño also played with many other musicians in the Bay Area including Larry Van, drummer for Elvin Bishop; Louis Madison, organist for James Brown; and drummer Mark Lignell who also worked with Calvin Keys, Charles Brown, and John Handy.

After gigging in Northern California for ten years, Niño returned to New York and, in 2003, produced a Latin album, Niño Torrente and Son de Hoy, whose opening song, "Gozalo", won best song in the Latin category from the 5th Independent Music Awards.

In the last few years, Niño has returned to his funk roots, drawing on West Coast and East Coast influences, from the soulfulness of Oakland to the energy of New York. Snow White Blackbird is a collaboration of some of New York City's seasoned musicians who have come together to inspire you.

These songs represent his own experiences, reflecting the grittiness of everyday struggle ("The Jungle"), the social and economic hard times in America ("We the People"), the sense of empowerment that comes from making it through life's ups and downs ("Movin' On"), and the laid back groove of ("In the Pocket.") The music's vocal textures, rhythms, and horn lines will bring the good funk to you!

Special thanks to Albert Leusink for all his contributions to this album; to Brent McLachlan for his expertise as recording engineer at 30 Below Music; to Luis Damiam Güell for his superb mastering; and to Junko Rose for her striking and stylish artwork.

Special thanks to Albert Leusink for all his contributions to this album; to Brent McLachlan for his expertise as recording engineer at 30 Below Music; to Luis Damiam Güell for his superb mastering; and to Junko Rose for her striking and stylish artwork.

Contact Information:
Niño Torrente
swb@snowwhiteblackbird.com