Rumba Club
Radio Mundo
Palmetto Records
From Palmetto
records is the long awaited new release from the Rumba Club entitled,
"Radio Mundo." This top-notch unit of Latin Jazzers
from the East coast have established themselves as a strong force
on the Latin Jazz scene and with this new recording have given
to us their fans a recording of the highest caliber.
This marks their fourth release and I believe it to be their
strongest yet. As with their past releases, Rumba Club brings
us their hard hitting Latin rhythms mixed with a strong be-bopish
Jazz to create a definitive sound all their own. I especially
like the mix on this one. 11 strong classic and original cuts
will have you agreeing with me that this band is one solid and
hip Latin Jazz group.
Rumba Club has now been performing for over 15 years and they
have reached a level of excellence that most groups strive for.
Led by the accomplished horn section of Craig Considine (Trombone),
Alexander Pope Norris (Trumpet/Flugelhorn), Paul Hannah (Saxophone,
Flute) and special guest Ben Frock (Flugelhorn).
The Percussion section is headed up by Orlando Cotto (Congas),
Jim Hannah (Timbales, Trap Drums), Sam Turner (Bongos, Percussion).
Also adding to the swing of the group is accomplished pianist
Tim Murphy. Josh Swatzman and producer and one of the founder
members of the group, Andy Gonzalez share duties on Bass. Adding
a nice touch to this effort are the vocal contributions of Alfredo
Mojica Jr. and Gary Sosias. Their vocals add a nice touch of
Sabor to the tunes on Radio Mundo.
Believe me that this is no lightweight Latin Jazz CD. This
recording is full of great material and will delight everyone
who hears it. The mix is a strong one from the powerful "This
Flight Tonight" done in the Guanguanco rhythm to the gentle
Bolero "Every time we say goodbye" and the soothing
yet feisty "Tanya", out of the great Donald Byrd's
book of tunes. One of my favorites is the standout "A Little
Taste" written by Timbalero, Jim Hannah. This one is a cooker
and full of percussion and a driving melody.
Rumba Club is here to swing and they are playing Latin Jazz
with a highly-flavored style all their own.
For more information on the Rumba Club and their fine recordings
check out their website at www.rumbaclub.com
By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin
Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com
