Pianist Aruan Ortiz takes the romance of Cuban piano and gives it a more elliptical feel on this collection of original compositions. A mix of intricacy and passion make up pieces such as “Louiverture Op. 1” and the abstract “Yambu’” while some dashes of Thelonious Monk are hit upon during the assertive “Dominant Force.” Ten dark fingers delve into “Density” while some piano strings are picked and strummed on the dance-able groove during “Monochrome.” Strings and percussion are also found on the ten minute journey of “Cuban Cubism” where Ortiz takes you on a long and winding road through hidden side streets. The ears and fingers both relax on the dreamy “Passages,” but for the most part the grey matter is used as much as the flexor digitorum muscles. A real workout!