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Sabu: Palo Congo
Sabu’s band uses an interesting mix of sounds. Five vocalists and five pairs of conguero hands ensure that tradition is served. By adding only an acoustic tres-like guitar and background acoustic bass to that sound, the session is bound to rely on its basic element – rhythm – while allowing melodic and harmonic colors to shine through occasionally. "Asabache" represents one long conga tirade, while "Simba" utilizes hypnotic conga drumming alongside authentic chant. The remainder of the session employs all of the ensemble’s members in an appropriate balance that achieves Sabu’s aim of laying bare the roots of Afro-Cuban jazz.
Track Listing
El Cumbanchero; Billumba-Palo Congo; Choferito- Plena; Asabache; Simba; Rhapsodia del Maravilloso; Aggo Elegua; Tribilin Cantore.
Personnel
"Sabu" L. Martinez- congas, bongos, vocals; Arsenio Rodriguez- congas, guitar, vocals; Raul "Cesar" Travieso- congas, vocals; Israel Moises "Quique" Travieso, Ray "Mosquito" Romero- congas; Evaristo Baro- bass; Willie Capo, Sarah Baro- vocals.
Album information
Title: Palo Congo | Year Released: 2000 | Record Label: Blue Note Records
About Sabu
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