The Caribbean Jazz Project: Paquito D'Rivera (alto saxophone, clarinet); Dave Samuels (marimba, vibraphone); Dario Eskenazi (piano); Oscar Stagnaro (bass); Mark Walker (drums); Andy Narell (steel pans); Luis Conte (congas, bongos, timbales, percussion).
Producers: Andy Narell, Dave Samuels, Paquito D'Rivera.
Recorded at The Carriage House, Stamford, Connecticut in April 1995.
This was the debut release by the Caribbean Jazz Project, a colorful co-op project that combines together the very different but complementary styles of Paquito D'Rivera (doubling on alto and clarinet), Dave Samuels (on marimba and vibes) and the brilliant steel drummer Andy Narell. Backed by a four-piece rhythm section, the accessible group sticks mostly to catchy group originals that range from Latin jazz to Caribbean music. The likable results are melodic and not overly predictable. This CD gives listeners an excellent example of the group's sound. ~ Scott Yanow
Professional Reviews
Down Beat (11/95, pp.63-64) - 3 Stars - Good - "...plenty of inspired soloing, savory rhythms and exotic melodies..."
Jazziz (12/95, pp.23-24) - "...you'll never experience Latin, Caribbean, Afro-Cuban, and Brazilian music quite the same way again. As feisty a fiesta as instrumental music can offer, THE CARIBBEAN JAZZ PROJECT is an historical musical event....easily the most vibrant and dynamic ensemble interaction of the year..."
