By Kyle Simpler
Considering the rising popularity of latin music, it seems only
natural that someone would come out with a guide to Afro-Cuban
Jazz—ideal territory for Miller-Freeman’s Third Ear series. Third Ear
offers music listeners an in-depth look into genres that might not
receive full coverage in more general guides. Scott Yanow’s
Afro-Cuban Jazz is the latest addition to this catalog, which also
includes books on Bebop, Swing, Alternative Rock, and Celtic Music.
Yanow, who also did the Third Ear Bebop and Swing guides, has
written for numerous jazz publications. With Afro-Cuban Jazz, he
presents an insightful and entertaining introduction to this important
but, as he describes it “somewhat neglected” segment of jazz. Rather
than approaching the material in an overly academic manner, though, he
assumes the tone of a knowledgeable friend offering advice and providing
informative background material on the performers. He reviews some of
the artists’ available recordings along with a few harder to find ones
to be aware of.
He uses a ten-point system for reviewing CDs, as opposed to the
usual four- or five-star ratings. But there’s more than just details on
the recordings; he also provides interesting information about the
artists and their role in the Afro-Cuban scene. This helps the reader
obtain an understanding of the music, along with its history.
While the latin influence in jazz music goes back to its earliest
days, it wasn’t until the 1940s that it really became popular. Thanks to
musicians like Dizzy Gillespie, Tito Puente, and Stan Kenton, the
Afro-Cuban sound became a popular import and an important part of the
jazz canon. But Yanow doesn’t limit himself solely to the obvious
performers; lesser-known artists get covered as well. He includes
important sidemen like José Mangual and Sonny Bravo, pre-1940s artists
such as Don Azpiazu, and younger musicians worth checking out. There’s
also a section of interviews and another part covering artists like Dave
Brubeck and Sonny Rollins, who aren’t considered Afro-Cuban players, but
incorporated elements of it into their music.
Let’s face it, though, pretty much any reference book is going to
have its limits—certain things just aren’t going to make the cut. As a
writer, you simply can’t cover all of the bases. Of course this doesn’t
mean that artists not included aren’t worthwhile. Take The Buena
Vista Social Club, for example. With all of their recent popularity, it
seems logical that this volume would offer plenty of coverage. Beside a
mention in the introduction, though, pianist Reuben Gonzáles is its only
artist receiving an entry. Of course, some might argue that Cuban Son
music isn’t exactly Afro-Cuban jazz. Fair enough. However, Yanow does
have a very good entry for Carlos Santana, who seems to get shelved a
lot in rock sections for an Afro-Cuban jazz artist.
Just because there are a handful of omissions, though, doesn’t
detract from the book’s validity. Yanow knows his subject well and has a
great appreciation for jazz music. Afro-Cuban Jazz offers interested
listeners an excellent starting point for exploring Afro-Cuban sounds.
