The Late and great Cal Tjader was an inspiration to so many. He was so well respected and admired that he became a musical hero to countless aspiring musicians and fans. Cal's personality and friendly demeanor was above all the trait that many musicians will long remember. His style of Latin Jazz was created from a deep love for good music. Many believe that his style of play defined the "West Coast" sound. When he first became interested in the idea of starting a Latin Band he himself was influenced by the greats. He was hooked on the Latin groove by checking out the likes of Tito Puente, Tito Rodriguez, Eddie Palmieri and others in New York.

Since his untimely death many tributes have been done in his honor. In fact, there have been many recordings dedicated to this great and humble man who created joy and musical memories for his colleagues and fans alike. Tito Puente, Louie Ramirez, Bobby Pauneto, Joe Cuba, Bobby Montez, Poncho Sanchez, Ruben Estrada (Estrada Bros.), Bob Desena, Dave Samuels, Terri Gibbs and Andy Narrell are a few names that come to mind when I think of the cats who have in one way or another been inspired by the great Cal Tjader. Who could ever forget his timeless rendition of the Chano Pozo- Dizzy Gillespie classic, Guachi Guara better known as "Soul Sauce."

Speaking of Soul Sauce--what a cool name that would be for a group--I used to think. Well, it has been finally done. From none other than the San Francisco Bay Area, we have Soul Sauce, a group of brilliant, swinging musicians who have created their own brand of cool swing. Inspired from the sparkle of Tjader's vibes, Curt Moore and Jon Eriksen have done more than create a tribute band. They have produced a group with all the characteristics of a hot & spicy Tjader style band. I am certain that after hearing this group, many folks will agree with me that Soul Sauce has got it. They have got the groove and swing that will not disappoint even the most discriminating music fan.

On their debut release "Got Sauce?" they introduce themselves with a list of original and classic tunes done in their own unique way. I would classify their brand of Latin Jazz as "Cool and Spicy." Just as the title suggests, this is a blending of hip swinging Jazz with hot Latin rhythms. Their music is filled with soul and grooves very nicely.

The band Soul Sauce highlights a line-up of talented and exceptional musicians including a long-time percussion legend from the Bay Area Willie Colon. On bass they have Al Bent who has worked with the likes of James Moody, Dizzy Gillespie, Al Molina, Pete Escovedo, McCoy Tyner and Carlos Santana. The piano work is handled by Pablo Perez who does an excellent job. He plays one tasty piano! Michael Spiro, who has had a long career playing with all the top names in Jazz and Latin, makes an appearance here on Shekere. Michaelle Goerlitz who I had not heard of before plays some very convincing Congas and percussion as well. Curt Moore, the co-leader and drummer has performed with a long list of varied artists as well. Including Pete Escovedo, Jimmy Haslip, Chuck Berry, Francisco Aguabella and he currently is on the teaching staff at the Jazz School in Berkeley California. Jon Eriksen, is the Vibist and Harmonica player and does both with a touch of elegance and a command that would make both Cal Tjader and Toots Theilman proud.

I am not sure what it is but when the vibes are incorporated into Latin music it makes it that much more elegant. Whether it is used playing a soulful Bolero or Cha Cha the instrument creates such an appealing sound. Listen to the numbers on this disc and you will hear the tone of the vibes lead this already swinging group to a higher level of musical excellence. The session starts off with "Freddie the Freeloader" a well-arranged version of this Miles Davis number. I like this groove. If Cal could only here this one he would have a huge smile on his face. This Cha-Cha is smooth and has Sabor. "La Basura" is an up-tempo number that with its intro will have you moving. This is an original Mambo from Pianist Paul Poyten, who also plays with Soul Sauce and was the leader of a hip band Canoneo that was around in the 1980's and recorded 2 excellent albums. The next tune is "Let's Bite Amy" also from Paul and this one is gorgeous. A classy and swaying bolero that picks up to a nice guajira. The band covers versions of "Tune-up" & "Solar" by Miles Davis along with a fine version of "Dindi." You will also like the cuts "All of you", "Django", "Curacao", "Alonzo", "Aleluia" and 2 of my favorites "In a Sentimental Mood" and "Soul Sauce."

I am so happy over the fact that Soul Sauce has created the wonderful sound that they have. I really dig what they are doing. This was a long-time in coming and I know that they will be around for a long while. Treat yourself to some clean and crisp music, the cool and spicy sounds of Soul Sauce.

For more information on the group visit their web-site at http://www.site4sound.com/soulsauce

By Erik Chico Manqueros
Host & Producer of The Latin Style of Jazz and Contributing writer
Latin Style Magazine, LatinJazzClub.com