Bill Ortiz: Points of View

Long associated with Carlos Santana, with whom he had a 16-year stint, trumpeter Bill Ortiz steps into the spotlight here with an auspicious and highly entertaining session. Ten selections showcase Ortiz who is supported by some of the Bay area's best. The order of the day is energy, excitement, and an overall superb show.

"Sunburst," an Eddie Henderson tune, launches things with a pulsing piano, driving bass, textured rhythms and Ortiz wailing, first using a Harmon mute then an open horn over a deep percussion bed. "Alex the Great" keeps the exotica going up-tempo with Ortiz and saxophonist Azar Lawrence starting, and a fine Matt Clark piano solo. Wilton Felder's "Aint Gon Change A Thang" is another burner with Latin overtones, featuring a fine Lawrence tenor solo, and Ortiz adding pedalled effects.

Ortiz is an outstanding modern player who, while reflecting the aforementioned Henderson, Woody Shaw, Miles Davis, and their influences, draws heavily on his electric, contemporary experiences with Santana, et al. With a fine sound, great range and fluidity, he commands his horn and it spews truth.

With homage to Jaco Pastorius, the ensemble presents a lengthy, expansive panorama of trumpeted Ortiz effects reverberating over fire- brand percussion on "Okonkole y Trompa." "A Toast to the People," a chant-like testimony is brilliantly delivered by vocalist Terrie Odabi. "Fusion/Noche Cubana" is pure, unadulterated polyrhythmic frenzy, over which vocalist Christelle Durandy and both Ortiz and Lawrence thrive. Wayne Shorter's textured "Oriental Folk Song" has Ortiz and Lawrence stating the melody before a blue groove takes stage and each is blowing hard. "My Lord and Master" from The King and I closes things in a subdued, reverent manner.

Vocalist Terri Odabi is featured on two tracks and exhibits an inviting voice. The supporting group is outstanding; pianist Matt Clark, bassist John Santos, drummer, Dennis Chambers and percussionists are all terrific as ensemble and soloists. The album's sound and other production values are impeccable.

Points of View from Bill Ortiz is a stellar performance in every regard. It is easily one of the best recordings released in 2023.

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