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Luis Munoz: Of Soul and Shadow

by Chip Boaz
An artist's application of structure leaves both positive and negative impacts upon Latin jazz. Rhythmic structures dictate the embedded Latin style and determine melodic phrasing. The harmonic structure provides the improviser a reference point for melodic invention. Structure becomes dangerous when composers strictly impose it upon their performance. The expressive freedom of jazz becomes lost, and ...
Insight: A Genesis

by Chip Boaz
Artists may travel different roads to create a unique Latin Jazz voice. Some musicians follow the established formula, repeating the success of the genre's legends. Other artists explore a more unique approach, delving into influential musicians outside the genre's popular success stories. A smaller group looks into the most challenging avenues, finding connections between diverse concepts ...
Suenos Latin-Jazz: Azul Oscuro

by Chip Boaz
Interpretation exists as both a necessity and a dangerous path for the Latin Jazz artist. Creativity and personalization are important tenants of jazz; artists cannot repeatedly perform songs the same way. An artist makes their statement by interpreting melodic phrasing, harmonic alterations, and the rhythmic feel. When an artist interprets stylistic elements, they run the risk ...
Jos: Tambolero

by Chip Boaz
All-star bands create music that brims with possibilities; yet the outcome runs the risk of positive or negative results. Combining high caliber musicians brings expectations of powerful music. Experience gives these artists knowledge and skill, increasing the chance of memorable music. When distinctive artists join forces, a possible mismatch can also occur. Groups sometimes lack a ...
Wilson "Chembo" Corniel: For The Rest Of Your Life

by Chip Boaz
Our expectations shape our listening experiences, even before we hear an artist's recorded work. We anticipate musical genres based on a musician's past and assume that the bandleader will be featured prominently. We judge unfamiliar artists on their instrument, album covers, or websites; and then we decide whether that artist deserves our attention. Once we listen ...
Rafi Malkiel: My Island

by Chip Boaz
Latin jazz artists faces important choices when shaping their debut album. First-time leaders write original music or interpret standards--the resultant repertoire and musical expressions display wisely chosen risks or lack of judgment. Musicians invite guest artists to perform, adding a sense of cohesion or confusion to the album's overall sound. The musical direction deserves careful consideration; ...
Eddie Reyes: Lost World

by Chip Boaz
Blending musical styles requires a broad foundation in both genres, a respect for the dual set of aesthetics, and the ability to prioritize tradition amid creativity. A solid foundation in both musical styles balances influences and avoids overly simplistic sonic references. Cultural aesthetics guide musicians away from implementing styles as a novelty. Understanding tradition is the ...
Alex Garcia's Afromantra: Espiritu Optimista

by Chip Boaz
When a Latin jazz artist shapes their approach, they can let rhythms drive the sound, or they can incorporate the rhythms into a compositional focus. Emphasizing the music's rhythmic aspect highlights dance styles and simplistic harmonic writing. Such musicians rearrange standards and complete their repertoire with commercial compositions. Musicians that integrate Latin ...
Mark Weinstein: Con Alma

by Chip Boaz
Collaboration lies at the heart of any successful performance--a fact all artists remember when gathering musicians for a recording. The personnel need to compliment each other artistically while reflecting diverse musical backgrounds. The repertoire needs to challenge the musicians yet they must demonstrate mastery over it. The ensemble should display a mutual respect for the tradition ...
Poncho Sanchez: Raise Your Hand

by Chip Boaz
An album reflects an artistic personality; the creative mixture of past influences determines the current output. When Concord Records acquired the Rhythm 'n Blues label Stax, percussionist Poncho Sanchez gained access to musicians and repertoire that shaped his musical identity. This provided Sanchez the opportunity to paint a fuller picture of his artistic background. On Raise ...