Personnel includes: Jane Bunnett (soprano saxophone, flute, melodica); Filo Machado (vocals, guitar); Celso Machado (vocals, percussion); Larry Cramer (trumpet); Hilario Duran (piano); Carlitos Del Puerto (bass).
Jane Bunnett has done a great deal to document the modern Cuban jazz scene. On this CD, she mixes aspects of Cuban music with Brazilian jazz, a combination not often utilized. The music overall is a bit softer and mellower than some of her previous sets, but Bunnett is in superb form on both soprano and flute and has her fiery moments. Guitarist Filo Machado (who along with his brother, percussionist Celso Machado, is largely responsible for the Brazilian flavor) contributed five of the ten selections, while Bunnett brought in two originals. Other soloists include trumpeter Larry Cramer and pianist Hilario Duran. A continually intriguing date that grows in interest with each listen. ~ Scott Yanow
Professional Reviews
Down Beat (3/96, p.57) - 3 Stars - Good - "...with their sunny spirit and sparkling technique, the musicians...create a festive atmosphere..."
JazzTimes (3/96, p.109) - "The distinctive voices that flavor this engaging...repast of Latin jazz...have character and verve, and stay close enough to the beaten track....There is a subversive element here, however: Hilario Duran's provocative piano stylings threaten to bring the whole stew into boil-over mode....I'd like to hear more of them."
