Home » Jazz Articles » Album Review » Rebeca Mauleon: Latin Fire

Rebeca Mauleon: Latin Fire

By Dr. Judith Schlesinger
December 6, 2004
Sign in to view read count

From the first notes of Latin Fire, it's clear that the title is accurate. These days the words "Latin fire" are way over-used, applied to anything with an Afro-Cuban beat and exotic percussion. But much of it is too soggy to catch fire. Mauleón's music, in contrast, has that special snap and passion that signals the best of Latin music—as well as the best of music in general, now that I think of it.

All the selections were written and arranged by Mauleón (English translations are provided for her lyrics). An accomplished pianist, vocalist and composer as well as leader, arranger, and teacher, she's clearly a master of the genre (there are 25 years of credits on her web site ), but also enjoys expanding its boundaries. For example, the track ("Cuba Hermosa") that follows the blazing opener, "Batamambo," could be filed under soul, complete with sexy, Luther-like undercurrents. Then things re-ignite with "Fuego" ("Fire"), featuring Bill Ortiz's searing trumpet, a consistent joy throughout. In "CuBrazil," the wordless vocals and piano comp are reminiscent of Tania Maria, although Mauleón's voice is sweeter, and the closing DJ mix would help whip a party to its height.

Each tune has a point to make: most are evocative celebrations of a particular musical/dance style (rumba, conga, Caribbean rhythm) and/or a place (Cuba, Puerto Rico). Two tracks—"La Ventana" (The Window) and "Pa'Lante" (Onward)—are about opening minds and social themes, but nothing is heavy-handed, and the music is always engaging. Mauleón's band is crisp and first-rate, and its journey transcends national and musical borders. Latin Fire is an intriguing and mood-enhancing CD.

Track Listing

Batamambo, Cuba Hermosa, Fuego, A La Rumba, Te Canto Puerto Rico, Ritmo Caribeno, Ven Conmigo, La Ventana, CuBrazil, Pa'Lante, La Ventana (DJ mix)

Personnel

Rebeca Mauleon

piano

Rebeca Maule

Album information

Title: Latin Fire | Year Released: 2004 | Record Label: Rumbeca Music

< Previous
Pin Your Spin

Next >
Monsoon

Comments

About Rebeca Mauleon

Instrument: Piano

Tags

For the Love of Jazz

All About Jazz has been a pillar of jazz since 1995, championing it as an art form and, more importantly, supporting the musicians who create it. Our enduring commitment has made "AAJ" one of the most culturally important websites of its kind, read by hundreds of thousands of fans, musicians and industry figures every month.

You Can Help

To expand our coverage even further and develop new means to foster jazz discovery and connectivity we need your help. You can become a sustaining member for a modest $20 and in return, we'll immediately hide those pesky ads plus provide access to future articles for a full year. This winning combination will vastly improve your AAJ experience and allow us to vigorously build on the pioneering work we first started in 1995. So enjoy an ad-free AAJ experience and help us remain a positive beacon for jazz by making a donation today.