Straight from the big apple comes a fresh new band called "Manhattan Vibes." From Latin Jazz to funk and world rhythms, leader Christos Rafalides presents a smooth mix of original and cover Jazz standards that are sure to bring him instant recognition with fans of this music. Joining Rafalides on this record date are the talents of John Benitez on electric/acoustic bass, drummer Steve Hass, with special guests trumpeter Randy Brecker, guitarist Vinny Valentino, Luisito Quintero on percussion and vocals by Mary Wormworth.

Unlike the vibe sound that is more commonly heard throughout the Jazz world from contemporaries like Dave Samuels and Gary Burton who was Christos's teacher at Berklee College of Music, Rafalides spills a darker sound on the vibes. Perhaps not rich in technical shops on the instrument, Rafalides possesses a cool musical approach that seems to blend pleasantly with different styles of music.

Set to a 6/8 groove, the first tune titled "Flamingo Strut" establishes a poly-tonal resonance of African rhythms with voice and vibes. Another Rafalides composition, "Pocket" features a funky shuffle rhythm with Brecker on the muted trumpet and some electric guitar work by Valentino. Next, the band breaks into a Latin Jazz groove classic salsa tune titled "La Esencia Del Guanguanco" with solos by Hass, Rafalides and Valentino. On this tune, the rhythm section is far from congenial and at times falls apart--out of sync-largely due to the overplaying of Quintero's work on conga. Instead of keeping the beat with the drummer, his performance on the conga drums instead resembles someone playing the bongos as he attempts to improvise on almost every other measure with no regard for the lead instruments or groove.

A Lennon and McCarney composition, Rafalides and crew perform "A Full On The Hill" with an ominous vibes solo backed by a funky beat. Other compositions include Jazz standards like "Caravan" and "All The Things You Are" as well as additional originals for a total of ten tunes.

This CD contains a good balance of material for Latin Jazz fans to enjoy--easy listening. Christos displays able agility on the vibes showcasing a capable amount of improvisational skills as well as a talented composer. Benitez is unyielding and confident throughout. Brecker adds some good sounds. Perhaps overplaying at times, but for the most part drummer Hass manages to maintain a solid groove plus a couple of nice drum solos to boot. Rafalides' "Manhattan Vibes" is a good starting point for this up-n-coming musician.

review by John Davis
JDavis@latnjazzclub.com
Contributing writer
LatinJazzClub Magazine

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