Raíces (Roots) pays homage to the originators of Latin Jazz and performs original music in the same style. The release of their debut, self-titled album was well-received, and they played to a standing-room-only crowd at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase for Cal Tjader’s Centennial in July 2025.

Raíces was modeled after the famous Cal Tjader Quintet of the 1950s and 1960s by the late Chicago percussionist Rubén Alvarez and is now led by vibraphonist Joe Sonnefeldt. Since their post-pandemic return, the group has thrilled audiences at area music festivals and venues in Chicago and the suburbs. Raíces includes Stuart Seale on piano, Cuban-born bassist Eric Ferrer, Chicago stalwart Bobby Delgado on timbales, and Jorge Leal on congas.

Raíces’ concerts are always rousing as they put their modern, Chicago-influenced stamp on the Latin Jazz classics of artists like Tjader, Mongo Santamaria, Tito Puente, Paquito D’Rivera, and others. Their original compositions blend seamlessly with the standards they perform.

Vibraphonist Joe Sonnefeldt has performed or recorded with Chicago bands including Poi Dog Pondering, Ten City, René Avila’s Afro-Cuban Quintet, MJO’s “The Bowie Project”, and The Michael Lerich Jazz Ensemble. Pianist Stuart Seale has been based in Chicago since 2008 and previously performed with his own group, “Charangueo”. Bobby Delgado (timbales) is a self-taught hand percussionist of Puerto Rican descent. He’s influenced by Afro-Cuban and Caribbean styles and the music of Puerto Rico. Bobby is the driving force of the percussion section and a featured soloist. Eric Wilman Ferrer Yard (bass) was born in Cuba and plays both the bass guitar and guitar. After studying music in Cuba, he began his musical career with multiple bands and orchestras. Since 2019 Eric has added his unique Cuban style and passion to Raíces. Conguero Jorge Leal was born in Mexico City and raised on the south side of Chicago. He currently plays congas with Joaquin Garcia's “Tematica” and several other Afro-Latin ensembles around Chicago.