2012-10-29
Simply put, Master Conguero, band leader knows how to put hot rhythms and the Latin into Jazz. This CD was recorded in the summer of 2012 at the Hollywood and Highland KKJZ summer concert series and features his top notch Latin jazz band hitting on all cylinders throughout the entire disc. The disc begins with a swinging Latin favorite of Poncho's Promenade and quickly moves into the first Medley of Ponchos music he has ever recorded in his 30 year career on Concord music. Poncho takes liberties and proceeds into an almost unrecognizable but great rendition of the 1947 jazz classic "On Green Dolphin Street". On "Cross Cut Saw" an Albert King classic, Poncho cuts into your core and delivers the blues in his own fashion. On the track "Morning" Poncho slows things down and pays tribute to one of his biggest influences, the late keyboardist and composer Clare Fischer. Afro Blue is another Jazz classic that has been recorded by everybody from Abby Lincoln, Diane Reeves, Lizz Wright & Derek Trucks but Poncho gives credit to it's composer Mongo Santamaria. This CD is sure to leave you dripping in sweat as you leave this Latin dance party. Reviewed By Gregg SaurThe opinions expressed in these reviews are those of the individual volunteers that submitted the article and do not necessarily reflect the views of WYCE or GRCMC; nor its staff, donors, or affiliates.