Crisol Habana

---

Roy Hargrove, trumpet; Chucho Vales, piano; David Sanchez, reeds; Frank Lacy, trombone; Horacio Hernandez, drums; Jose Quintana, timbales; Miguel Diaz, congas; John Benitez, bass; Gary Bartz, alto; Russell Malone, guitar

O my seh yeh, Una mas, Dream traveler, Nusia's Poem, Mr. Bruce, Ballad for the children, Mountaings, Afrodisia, Mambo for Roy, Omy seh yeh

From the opening and haunting lines of "O my seh yeh" repeated by guitarist Russell Malone to the driving "Mambo for Roy," we have a CD that showcases the talents of Roy Hargrove but further explores the amazing directions currently being taken by Latin Jazz. There is an enormous array of originality and extremely creative forces driving this music. Chucho Valdez, the creator and driving spirit behind Cuba's sensational, "Irakeri" contributes his writing skills as well as his highly innovative piano artistry. David Sanchez continues to amaze and forge ahead within the Latin Idiom while remaining fresh and opening up new avenues of exploration. Listen to his haunting solo on "Mountaings." Frank Lacy complements the group with some highly spirited trombone solos behind some crispy chords from Chucho and a driving rhythm section.

Roy Hargrove is of the lyrical playing vernacular. However, the man can cook with the best. If you are a skeptic, listen to him on "Afrodisia." His ability and grasp of the Latin musical forces comes through this CD with clarity, force, and originality. I highly recommend this music to the Latino aficionado or the new kid on the block looking to get his feet wet in the world of salsa and the clave.

Back to : CD Reviews