Let's go on another Salsa ride with the L.A.
Carpool
I am not sure how this could be
possible but this new recording by the L.A.Carpool, Havana Taxi
is even better than the first one. Don't get me wrong their first
effort "When Worlds Collide" was very good in it's
own right. After all, it introduced us to this unique and powerful
group of talents. Jack Gold who is the Conguero/Producer/Creator
and cheerleader of the group has put together another collection
of smokin' originals and 2 covers on this disc and all with that
exceptional LA Carpool sound.
The L.A. Carpool mixes so many elements to create the power
in their sound. Nowadays when most Salsa bands generally sound
the same it is refreshing to hear a new brand of music where
with every tune and note you are saying to yourself "Let
me hear that again." At least that is what I was saying
as I heard this exciting release for the first time. The L.A.
Carpool fuses together the sounds of Rock, R&B, Jazz, Soul
and a whole lot of Clave and Montuno to create their style. In
my humble opinion it is a style that is not too far from being
labeled as perfect. Why do I say this you may ask? Well, as Latin
music continues to grow and expand in popularity there are many
new fans who, are just now learning of the music's rich history
and tradition. L.A. Carpool is music that fans of any genre of
music can get into. With their new fresh sound and for the most
part English lyrics, they create a universal appealing groove.
On Havana Taxi you will hear such gems as the grooving and
Santana-esque "Bandolero" that features some splendid
trumpet work from Jerry Rusch and a Guitar lead that will have
you asking "who is that?", by Frank Garcia. This one
has the sounds of War-Santana-Malo-Earth Wind and Fire all rolled
up into one. "Miguel" (The Iguana) is a tale of an
entrepreneurial Iguana named Miguel that has a plan to get rich.
This Guarija-Cha highlights the playing of Albeniz Quintana who
plays a smoking hot Piano, Dave Stout on Trombone and special
Invited guest on Violin, Susie Hansen. Faith Rivera, the brilliant
and exquisite vocalist, shines on all the tunes especially on
the sensuous ballad "One Moment."
I strongly believe that this tune will be a Top 40 hit. Listen
to the emotion in her delivery it will leave you breathless.
On "Luna Negra" you will hear a catchy melody, creative
arrangement and strong coros that will invite you to get up and
dance. The Pop-flavored "America" features Frank Garcia
on Guitar along with Larry Goldman (Bass) and Fernando Diaz (Percussion).
This tune has a nice dance edge to it and should be a great Club
tune. The tunes "What part of No" and "Por Ti"
feature some fine work from the L.A. Carpool horn section and
strong vocals. The latter, is a bi-lingual salsa tune that is
very appealing and full of sabor. The music just gets better
and better as we hear a revitalized instrumental rendition of
the Latin Jazz staple "Linda Chicana." This tune was
recorded in 1975 by an early edition of the L.A. Carpool and
has the composer the great Mark Levine on piano. I dig the arrangement
and Ray Pizzi "Linda Chicana" is the tune for me, thanks
Mark! A tune that will bring back memories is the 70's rock n'
roll classic of "Do it again." It is one done with
an exceptional touch of elegance and brings new life to this
one. I like the vocals on this one--I wonder if they are referring
to Jack?...."Back Jack ..Do it Again".....I wonder.
Check out the tune "Salsa Inferno" which will definitely
have your CD player melting. This is a mover and groover that
has all the elements of a great dance tune.
A favorite of mine that was originally released on the "When
Worlds Collide" album, "Oye Garcia" is remixed
here and labeled a Salsa/Dance bonus track. Believe me when I
tell you that this one defines what Great music is all about.
Creativity, highly seasoned enjoyable rhythm and a touch of class.
Thank you Jack for re-doing an already great one. Now as the
cliches say: "Saving the best for last" or "Last
but not least" (I won't use those here). I will however
say that the title track Havana Taxi is one awesome tune. It
has a delicious Guarija beat and all the players get into this
one. Faith's vocal work is eloquent and beyond compare.
If you are looking for some fresh, new and original music
with an appealing edge to it, the music of L.A. Carpool will
not disappoint you. Who said there is no good salsa in Los Angeles?
Just as all you commuters share a ride with a co-worker or an
amigo in the "Carpool" lane of the highway, share the
sounds of the L.A. Carpool with lovers of good music all over.
If you don't, the salsa police will cite you for not adhering
to the rules of the road. The salsa road that is!
For more information on the L.A. Carpool check out their website
at: www.lacarpool.com.
Also listen to some cool vintage L.A. Carpool sounds at: http://www.mp3.com/lacarpool.
By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin
Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com
