Bill O'Connell & The Latin Jazz All-Stars: Zocalo

Rating: ★★★★

Record and Artist Details

Musicians:

Steve Slagle (as)
Richie Flores (perc)
Adam Cruz (perc)
Luques Curtis (b)
Conrad Herwig (tr)
Bill O'Connell (p)

Label:

Savant

February/2014

Catalogue Number:

SCD 2129

RecordDate:

June 2013

Pianist O'Connell has worked with latin groups, including those of Mongo Santamaria, Dave Valentin, The Fort Apache Band and the late Steve Berrios, for some 35 years now. His colleagues here have similarly been round the block, especially Herwig, who makes up a fine front-line with the underappreciated Slagle, who is thoroughly effective in solo spots on alto and soprano. Luques Curtis, brother of pianist Zaccai, is the youngest member and is absolutely outstanding in his grooves, choice of notes and general spiritual contribution, as well as a perfect partner for O'Connell and the consistently subtle Cruz. The latin feel is always there, even on the standards, thanks to the tasteful conga work by Richie Flores, who is of course, a driving force on the several up-tempo O'Connell originals. Vic Feldman's tune for Miles, ‘Joshua’ gets a complete latin makeover, as does ‘The Surrey With the Fringe on Top’. One of the CD's best tracks is the touching treatment of ‘For All We Know’, with heartfelt solos by Slagle and O'Connell and remarkably sympathetic and mature bass work by Curtis. This is a thoroughly enjoyable, totally engaging album, which retains its freshness after repeated playing.

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