Puerto Rican Bassist Alex “Apolo” Ayala-Berríos is a dynamic force in the music world, embodying the spirit of the multi-lingual musician. Hailing from San Juan, Puerto Rico, Ayala-Berríos infuses his Afro-Caribbean heritage with his extensive knowledge of both Latin music and Jazz languages, resulting in a unique and captivating sound. With over two decades of professional experience, he has collaborated with an impressive array of Latin music giants and world-renowned Jazz musicians, including Eddie Palmieri, Gilberto Santa Rosa, Tito Nieves, and many others. His versatility shines as he effortlessly navigates through various musical styles, from Swing and Bebop to Bomba, Plena, and beyond.

A graduate of the prestigious Conservatorio de Música de Puerto Rico, where he studied under legendary bassist Eddie Gomez and saxophonist David Sanchez, he now leads two ensembles: “The Bámbula Project,” an Afro-Puerto Rican Jazz Quartet, and “The Afro-Puerto Rican Jazz Big Band.” With two albums as a leader under his belt and ongoing work as a sideman and musical director, Ayala-Berríos is a true star in the world of Latin Jazz.