Vibrant and vital, the music of singer/songwriter Mario Sacasa is a rich rhythmic mix reflecting the life of a traveler: the musical traditions and folkloric undertones of his native Nicaragua, the urban aesthetic of the American city, the flavors of Cuban Miami. Sacasa has fused these diverse influences into a sound that defies narrow categories even as it draws significant acclaim. Among the honors: His song "Quiero Maria" won Grand Prize in the Latin category of The 2002 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. The song also won selection for the 2001 ASCAP Pop Songwriters Workshop in New York City. Another composition, "Si Tu Sabes," won finalist in Latin category of The 2001 John Lennon Songwriting Contest. Del Sur is a luscious, funky debut, a complex blend of old and new, Latin and American. The album is produced by Sacasa and Stewart Meyers (best known for his work with legendary DC act Agents of Good Roots). Contributing to Del Sur's heat is Latin Grammy winner Nestor Torres who's masterful flute on "Sombras" is one of the records highlights.