Here is a trio of releases that deliver music from three different countries. Select your own special spices and sprinkle generously!
Flutist Mark Weinstein has produced some impressive music from Central America and Brazil. This time around he travels to the southernmost part of South America and delivers Argentine Tango music with Abel Rogantini/p, Raul Jaurena/bandoneon, Francisco Navarro/g and Pablo Aslan/b. Some of the mataerial like “Onda Nueve” reflects the “New Tango” which was created by Astor Piazzolla, with an emphasis on sophisticated rhythms and harmonies. Others such as “Nostalgias” and “Todo Corazon” appeal more to the heart and feet, tempting you to grab your partner and sweep across the dance floor. Weinstein’s selection of flutes is exemplary with a flexible tone that guides you through the passionate directions from the swaying team.
Pianist Jovino Santos Neto continues Adventure Music’s intriguing Piano Masters Series by delving into 20, count ‘em, 20 different pieces that range from originals such as his own “Samba de Uma Nota So’ (One Note Samba)” to The Beatles’ “Blackbird.” The disc, with songs ranging from under 1 ½ minutes to just over 6 have a concert recital feel to it, with jazz standards like “All The Things You Are” and “My Funny Valentine” puree’d through the Brazilian Blender, while romantic melodies such as “Crescendo” and “Sempre” highlight the touch of a romantic serenade under a full moon. Luminous.
Earth toned Venezuelan vocalist Maria Marquez performs music from mostly her native land, but in a quizzically wide variety of sonic settings. When she sings in English, as on “Wild Card,” she sounds resoundingly similar to Cassandra Wilson. Her strongest moments are when she keeps to a simple and Spartan support team as on the delicious “Caramba” with clarinetist Don Gardner and “Serenata” with JHernan Gamboa strumming on the cuatro. Some synthetic sounds, slide guitars and electronic effects on material like “Tonada” detract rather than add to the atmosphere. A complete collection of one way or the other would have been a dream come true.
Jazzheads Records
Adventure Music
www.adventure-music.com