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Scott Martin: Caf
ByCafé Cubano is Scott Martin's debut album – and seven of the selections are originals by group members – but it sounds like the work of a seasoned veteran. Rhythms, the sine qua non of Latin jazz, are crisp, confident and rock-solid; chops are exemplary; and attacks and intonation are precise and accurate.
Lest you think this recording is all about technique, however, let me promptly dispel that notion. There’s plenty of fire here, beginning with the opening strains of Willie Bobo’s classic “Fried Neckbones and Some Home Fries.” Scott’s “Café Cubano” crackles with electricity, as does his “San Juan,” with its dynamic sax solo, and Rick White’s “Escuela de Peska.” But the album has its gentler moments as well: White’s “Con Seis” is a poignant ballad, with a luscious, Wes Montgomery-influenced solo by the composer. Listen for brother Stan on the trumpet, Andy Martin’s bracing trombone, and the leader's baritone sax and flute on the latter’s mid-tempo “Ojo de Rojo.” All in all, this album will reward your attention with a lot of enjoyment, from “Neckbones” through “Platanos” (“Bananas”) and “Mabuti,” with their tasty unisons, harmonies and solos, until the echoes of Jimmy Van Heusen’s “Imagination” fade into the twilight.
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Track Listing
Fried Neckbones and Some Home Fries; Caf
Personnel
Scott Martin
saxophoneScott 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.
Album information
Title: Caf | Year Released: 2003 | Record Label: SCM
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