Arturo Sandoval
L.A. Meetings
Cubop Records
From the label that has been bringing
us some of the greatest and most innovative sounds of Latin Jazz
comes this gem from the folks at Cubop. Arturo Sandoval L.A.
Meetings is a must have recording for any lover of Latin Jazz,
Arturo Sandoval or any one who enjoys great music.
Having been recorded over 11 years ago while Arturo and his
band were passing through Los Angeles this recording will have
you saying, "What took them so long to release this one?"
This session was produced by Frank Marrone and was recorded less
than a year before Arturo's defection from Cuba. Arturo without
a doubt has created a name and a strong following for himself
from fans of the Jazz and Latin world and this new/old recording
will have those fans thrilled.
For one, this session includes the talents of Arturo's top
notch Cuban band including Jorge Reyes (Bass), Hilario Duran
(Piano), Jorge Luis Chicoy (Guitar), Bernardo Garcia (Drums),
Reinaldo "Pichi" Valera (Congas) along with the great
exponent of Latin Jazz, El Conguero Poncho Sanchez.
The selection of tunes on this
disc are varied and all have that special Arturo Sandoval magic
touch. Just listen to the magic on the opening number "Rimsky"
which Arturo recorded and release many years ago. Arturo Sandoval
and Poncho Sanchez bring this tune to a high level of groove.
Just listen to the fun Arturo is having with his fiery timbales
solo. Poncho delivers one of the most inspired solos I have ever
heard him do. This is one hip tune! "Pete's King Heart"
is a swinging straight-ahead Jazz number that has a touch of
sophistication that only Arturo could add. Listen to how his
trumpet speaks and gives to us, the listener, the emotion that
only a master like Arturo can deliver.
"L.A. Meetings" is the title track and is a funky
down to earth number that is full of soul. Listen to the vibrant
texture and the cool guitar of Jorge Luis Chicoy. "Mi Lugar"
has a touch of reggae that adds nicely to this group's repertoire.
"Libertad Carnival" is a joyous tune that gives you
a strong feeling of a party theme. This one is a great party
tune and has a nice edge to it. Arturo's horn falls in nicely
and leads this ensemble into a creative and explosive piece of
music. One of my all-time favorite tunes is done next and with
all the touches of a classic. "Dindi" the great tune
that was composed by the brilliant Antonio Carlos Jobim is done
here with a touch of elegance and class. This already gorgeous
tune becomes transformed into a soft, lovely breeze that allows
Arturo to deliver one of his best efforts on the horn. Poncho
Sanchez sticks around on bongos and the tune is given a breathe
of fresh air by a wonderful guitar solo by Jorge Luis.
Thanks to Frank Marrone, Arturo Sandoval and Cubop records
for giving us this wonderful gift. L.A. Meetings is a classic
that will be cherished for many many years to come. Could this
be another Grammy winner for Arturo..? You be the judge.
www.ubiquityrecords.com
By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin
Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com
