David Urquidi
The David Urquidi Quintet
El Gigante Music
From Los Angeles, comes this young and excellent saxophonist.
When you find out that he is only 24 years old you may wonder
if he has what it takes. I strongly believe he does and after
hearing this dynamite recording my opinion became even more solidified.
Don't let his appearance or age fool you. David Urquidi has already
paid his dues and contributed plenty in his young career. If
his name sounds familiar, it should. David is the founder and
leader of one of the most innovative groups on the west coast.
He formed the band Yeska and the band has traveled all over exposing
listeners to their brand of Latin Jazz that they like to label
as Ska-fro-CubanJazz. The band has already released 2 CDs and
garnered much critical acclaim. David began his musical career
in High School where he began with the Baritone Sax. He later
switched to Alto and Tenor and began to learn all he could. He
began his early studies under Bruce Eskovitz at the USC School
of Music and later from Saxophone legend, Justo Almario.
David's musical direction was helped by encouraging words
he received from the king of Latin music, Tito Puente. David
and his group Yeska had performed as the opening act for el gran
maestro at the House of Blues in Hollywood and Tito liked what
he heard and gave his blessings to these young cats. David and
his group Yeska have shared the stage with such notables as Tito
Puente, Poncho Sanchez, Eddie Palmieri, Dave Sanborn, Bennie
Maupin, Teddy Edwards, Gerald Wilson, Manhattan Transfer and
Willie Colon. They have appeared at all the Major Jazz Festivals
like the Montreaux Jazz Festival and Cancun Jazz Festival.
Some of the top names in Latin Jazz here in Los Angeles have
given David a chance to blow his horn and is an impressive list.
The likes of Bobby Matos, The Banda Brothers, Francisco Aguabella,
Rudy Regalado, Long John Oliva and Lazaro Galarraga.
As you listen to this impressive recording of originals from
David one thing comes to mind, He is traveling out there looking
for his own voice. I think he has found it and I enjoy his technique.
His rich tone and colorful sounds will leave you wanting more.
The material that was selected for this recording feature his
quintet. Chris Barron and Zachary Rae share duties on Piano along
with Rene Camacho on Bass. Aaron Serfaty is heard on drums and
Miguel Zamarrippa does a fine job on percussion. Listen to David's
contributions to Jazz and Latin Jazz in the six outstanding selections
and you will be a fan of this young mans work.
I especially enjoyed the moody"ìLa Madera"
and the up-tempo "The Shaw." If you would like to really
get into David's groove check out the sophisticated and entrancing
"El Norte." Very nice and what an intro shades of Joe
Henderson.
Keep an ear open for David as he begins to bring us his brand
of great music. Whenever in Los Angeles, be sure to check him
out you will not be disappointed.
By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin
Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com
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