Alfredo Chacon: Bossing in the Rain

Multi-instrumentalist and Latin-jazz star Alfredo Chacon presents a Brazilian-tinged package of light bossa nova and Afro-Cuban rhythms on the sensational Bossing in the Rain, adding to his ever-growing list of music as a leader and sideman. A major voice in the Latin jazz genre, and fixture in the Miami jazz scene, Chacon honed his skills on the vibraphone and percussion by living and performing around the world. Having an affinity for the sounds of samba and bossa nova, it is no surprise that he would choose to feature the genre on one album.

Except for touching on the music of Joao Bosco, Chacon delivers a session of original material surrounded by a cast of primarily Latin players, fifteen in all, featured in different formats from quartets to other sets. A talented musician, who learned to read music at the age of five, Chacon is a four-mallet vibraphonist, who finds himself performing on the percussion and the drums on a couple of tracks.

The music is exceptional and bursting with energy right from the opening "Incompatibilidade de Genios," and follows on the catchy and shoulder-shaking "Apodaca Moving," one of the highlights of the session. The title track features flautist Carlos Cano as well as vocalist Gema Corredera de Cuba on background. Saxophonist Aldo Salvent graces the album on tenor and soprano on four pieces.

The Brazilian flair is in full swing on the fiery "Who Told You," a terrific cut begging for repeated spins. The flair continues on the very hip "JC Bossa" changing tempo and mood on "Como le Pongo" and mellowing out on the delicious "Jungle Island." The set closes with two starkly contrasting tunes beginning with the light and soft "The Bright Side of Sadness," and leaves us on the lively and fading "Joao's Groove."

Chacon's Bossing in the Rain succeeds in capturing the flavor of the Brazilian genre using the vibes, percussion and drums and, of course, with a little help from his friends. A stunning portrait of the bossa whether in sun light or the rain and perfect for any time of the day. Enjoy!