Track Listing

1. Voz del Caribe
2. Grandpa Semi-Tone Blues
3. Billie
4. Lazaro y Su Microfono
5. Ritmo Caliente II
6. Tema para Rene�
7. Leapfrog to Harlem
8. Gigue (Bach Goes Bat�)
9. D�me
10. Suj�tate la Lengua
11. Lo Que Triago Es Sabroso II

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #167931 in Music
• Released on: 2003-06-10
• Number of discs: 1
• Dimensions: .22 pounds

Amazon.com
Years ago, the Nuyorican pianist/bandleader Eddie Palmieri christened himself "the Sun of Latin Music," and with the recent deaths of Mongo Santamaria and Tito Puente, his claim to that title today is unchallenged. This CD, which translates as "Hot Rhythm," harkens back to the two-trombone frontline he pioneered in the 1960s with his legendary La Perfecta ensemble. Trombonists Conrad Herwig and Renaldo Jorge make up the frontline with ex-Art Blakey Jazz Messenger trumpeter Brian Lynch. Percussionist José "Cochi" Claussell, drummer Robert Ameen, and bassist Joe Santiago provide the punch behind these tunes in the classic, salsa-friendly Afro-Cuban tempo and mode. Palmieri's percussive pianisms swing with a groove that propels both Latin and jazz rhythms. On "Gigue (Bach Goes Batá)," Palmieri fuses J.S. Bach with Afro-derived batádrumming, while "Grandpa Semi-Tone Blues" is a catchy Antillean blues number. Palmieri's Thelonious Monk-like piano style is extremely percussive, and in his hands the instrument becomes 88 well-tuned hand drums. --Eugene Holley, Jr.

Customer Reviews

A Latin Jazz legend still going strong
This disc starts off with a bang, with swift salsa tunes like "La Voz Del Caribe" and "Grandpa Semi-Tone Blues" showing that Palmieri's still got the fire in the belly, and a band that can match his passion. He moves steadily into a jazzier, smoother mode, but it's all top-flight material. Even after all these decades into his career, Palmieri still seems like a force of nature: nothing can slow him down or make a dent in his soulfulness and love of the music. If you're a fan of modern Latin Jazz or salsa, then this is an album you'll appreciate.

Great Latin Jazz
I recently attended the Monterey Jazz festival and was priviledged to hear Eddie Palmieri (who wasn't even scheduled). This album is a treat for both jazz and salsa fans. Eddie shows his versatility, particularly in the amazing Gigue (which marries Bach to Latin jazz!). Also notable are Ms. Joseph's flute solos in several numbers. No, these aren't all dance numbers, but they're all great jazz!

El Maestro again!
Again Mr. Palmieri "El Maestro" bring to us the best piece of his artwork, a delightful cocktail of Afro-cuban and Latin jazz.