Marlon Simon: Rumba A La Patato

While it's true that Latin music can be monotonous and boring through its use of repetition, the spirit of any performance depends on the artists themselves. Simon's band, the Nagual Spirits, add spontaneity to the session through their freewheeling jams. Homages to pianist Thelonious Monk and conguero Patato Valdes remind the band of their high standards. These large shoes are filled considerably well; particularly on Simon's tone poems to Mozambique and India. "Sandra Malandra" trembles with African rhythms and alternates with swinging, common time patterns. It's the kind of excitement that Lalo Schifrin has pumped into many of his film scores. The result is a hot jam with an emphasis on percussion. "Belleza India" contrasts as a sultry alto saxophone ballad, and "Clear to Take Off" summarizes the program, as this final tune marches through the streets of Rio with the spotlight on Lynch and Simon. The Nagual Spirits offer enjoyable Latin jazz with a little something for everyone.

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