Mark Weinstein: Jazz Brasil

Flautist Mark Weinstein has been a major force in the Latin jazz genre for some time, releasing projects almost yearly. Though the body of his discography falls squarely within the Afro-Cuban form which remains his passion, he has slowly gravitated towards the Brazilian sound, releasing three Brazilian-style projects, for Jazzheads, since 2005. On Jazz Brasil, Weinstein presents a selection of jazz standards, dipped in a Brazilian stew to add that special genre flavor to each track. Of course, what is a Brazilian album without a serving of Antonio Carlos Jobim, so the classic "Triste," and "If You Never Come to Me" are also included in the repertoire

The flautist tackles two well-known jazz classics from Thelonious Monk, re-energizing the melodies of "I Mean You" and "Ruby My Dear" by adding a perky beat to the first, and a delicate touch to the second. Drummer Marcello Pellitteri and renowned pianist Kenny Barron sparkle on Wayne Shorter's "Nefertiti," while Weinstein stands out with a fiery performance on Ary Barroso's familiar "Brazil." Brazilian bass luminary Nilson Matta contributes one original with "Sambosco," marked by an obligatory introduction and solo. Pellitteri follows the bassist and contributes a sublime drum solo to this song with a driving samba beat.

Borrowing from fellow Jewish-American jazz flautist, the late Herbie Mann, Weinstein incorporates bass flute on the bluesy, one-chord Mann classic, "Memphis Underground," and closes the set with another blues staple, Joe Henderson's "Isotope," which Weinstein used to perform on trombone, back when he played with Henderson.

The music of Brazil is quite alluring, capturing the interest of many musicians, regardless of their instruments and preferred genres. Jazz Brasil continues Weinstein's love affair with Brazil, offering a dynamic selection of music highlighted by more dazzling performances from one of today's best Latin jazz exponents.