Rating:
Genre:
Jazz
Release Date: 09/23/2008
Run Time: 0:00
Percussionist
Francisco Mela's second CD as a leader is a compelling blend of many influences, mixing neo-bop, Cuban jazz, and South African jazz, with a fine cast in support that includes pianist
Jason Moran, guitarist/vocalist
Lionel Loueke, bassist
Larry Grenadier (sideman with
Brad Mehldau on a number of his CDs), and tenor saxophonist
Mark Turner. Six of the eight compositions were penned by the leader.
"Tierra and Fuego" is an intricate, adventurous melody with
Mela's tense percussion lighting the fire under
Turner's burning tenor. The furious pulse of
"Channel 2" propels
Turner's far-reaching solo, while the mysterious, somewhat eerie
"Cirio" is dedicated to the leader's late father, who died shortly before the recording sessions.
"Ulrick Mela" is named for
Mela's newborn son, a joyful piece primarily focusing on
Loueke's vocal and guitar. These enjoyable live performances show a lot of promise for
Francisco Mela, as a drummer, composer, arranger, and bandleader.
~Ken Dryden, All Music Guide
;)
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