idlero
The Latin Jazz Suite was comissioned by WDR (Westdeutschen Rundfunk) for the WDR Big Band of Koln , was recorded live( in concert in Koln) in June 1999 and in 2000 was a Grammy contender in the 'Best Latin Jazz Album' category. The concert was recorded with guest soloists John Faddis ( trumpet ), David Sanchez ( saxophone ), Ignacio Berroa ( drums ) , Alex Acuna ( Latin percussion ) and of course Lalo Schifrin on piano. A musical journey in six parts, the suite takes us through different latin soundscapes from Cuba to Brazil, Argentina , Spain and the Carribean with their specific music styles. Although the band carries most of the songs I enjoyed especially the soloists playimg. Martinique is catchy, Pampas is a beautiful , mellow track, Fiest has some great percussion work, Ritual and Manaos are vibrating with energy. Very enjoyable album, recommended to fans of Big Band Latin Jazz.