If there are two genres of music that might be hard to distill down to an "essence," it might be Latin and jazz. As such, it's understandable if you're mildly skeptical or — more optimistically — pleasantly intrigued by what might happen when a band calls itself Latin Essence Jazz Group.

Given that the ensemble in question consists of sterling and well-known local players Ben Velazquez (bass), Chris Leigh (guitar), Miguel Rios (congas), Steve Marien (saxophone), Rufus Davis (piano) and Eric German (percussion), I strongly suspect the music will be a headly mix of standards and heady pop with a tropical overtone. And performed with wit and passion. See for yourself Saturday when the Latine Essence Jazz Group takes the stage at the Hygienic Art Park in New London.

Latin Essence Jazz Group, 8 p.m. Saturday, Hygienic Art Park, 79 Bank St.; $10; hygienic.org.