Bio
Neil Ochoa was born in Caracas Venezuela to a family of music lovers; he grew up exposed to an intense and big Latin music discography owned by his father. At age 10 his grandmother gave him a set of bongos, being this his first instrument and the beginning of a passion that has lasted over 21 years and still keeps growing and evolving in a professional and a solid career.
Since 1995 Neil has been living in NYC developing his carrier as a versatile musician and educator.
His achievements include performing, touring and or recording with: Ricky Martin, David Byrne, Los Aterciopelados (Grammy Award winning rock en español band). Los Amigos Invisibles, (Latin Grammy award winning Latin band) Pianist Ed Simons, Jovino Santos (Hermeto Pascoal), Leon Parker’s Live Ensemble, percussionist Cyro Baptista, Guitarist Aquiles Baez… Among others.
For 11 years, Neil was the percussionist for Si*Se, the critically acclaimed NYC based trip-hop/Latin electronic project which whom edited three full length albums and a remix compilation by some of the top producers and DJ’s in the scene…
Along with Guitarist Jose Luis Pardo (Los Amigos Invisibles), Neil founded Los Crema Paraiso, in 2008. A powerful trio that brings Venezuelan traditional music into jazz, rock, funk, latin grooves, electronica and exotic sounds from all over the world. By Jan 2010 Los Crema Paraiso had released their first album self titled: El Debut, and are currently in the studio working for their second discography production.
In jan 2009 Neil met up with Olivier Conan, founder of La Chicha Libre who invited him to join the band, and ever since they’ve been constantly touring Europe, North and South America, participating in some of the most prestigious festivals.
contact: neilocho@cutupra.com