Scott Martin: Caf (2003)

Jim Santella

Senior Contributor since 1997

Jim Santella has been contributing CD reviews, concert reviews and DVD reviews to AAJ since 1997. His work has also appeared in Southland Blues, The L.A. Jazz Scene, and Cadence Magazine.

Recent articles (1,677 total)

Published: October 15, 2003

Scott Martin's eleven years with Poncho Sanchez have proven fruitful. The saxophonist's debut as leader features a delectable Latin jazz concoction worthy of a veteran’s ear. In fact, conguero Sanchez sits in to hold court.

The Martin brothers (Scott, Andy & Stan) have all performed and recorded with Sanchez at different times. This time out, they’re all together and enjoying it. The album features hot guitar jams, wall-to-wall Latin percussion, horns that flow from the same well, and a featured saxophone soloist who specializes in lyrical magic.

Willie Bobo’s “Fried Neckbones and Some Home Fries” starts the session with a bang, recalling the days when local conguero masters would ”battle” each other in public on Sunday afternoons in the park. Latin percussion brings an overt athleticism to the music that accompanies what’s already hot on the inside. Martin soars evenly with tenor saxophone over most selections, adding his other woodwind specialties in places. An exciting piccolo solo follows his baritone sax melodies on “Ojo de Rojo.” Later, Jimmy Van Heusen’s “Imagine” is interpreted on soprano with caresses all around.

Martin's impressive debut makes a big Latin jazz splash and leaves the promise of more to come from this dedicated lover of good music.

Audio clips for all nine tracks are available at www.scottmartinjazz.com .

Track Listing: Fried Neckbones and Some Home Fries; Caf

Personnel: Scott Martin- alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute, piccolo, piano, vocals; Poncho Sanchez- congas, percussion; Rick White- guitar, piano, vocals; Joey Deleon- congas; George Ortiz- timbales; Rene Camacho- bass; Stan Martin- trumpet, flugelhorn; Andy Martin- trombone.

Record Label: SCM
Style: Straight-ahead/Mainstream