Sergio Pamies: Time to Say

Spanish themes and rhythms reign supreme on Time to Say, Granada-born composer, arranger and pianist Sergio Pamies' fourth album, one that is enhanced on its opening and closing numbers, respectively, by the presence of renowned woodwind artists Dave Liebman and Paquito D'Rivera.

Not that Pamies' septet needs much help, as everyone is laser-focused and totally in sync. At the same time, Pamies, trumpeter Alex Norris, trombonist Marshall Gilkes and saxophonist Michael Thomas (on alto or soprano) are stellar soloists who never miss a chance to impress or surprise. Of course, any Spanish-flavored recording needs an impressive rhythm section, and Pamies checked that box by enlisting bassist Ricky Rodriguez, drummer Jimmy Macbride and percussionist Samuel Torres (reinforced on the opening number/title song by percussionist—and hand-clapper-in-chief—Miguel Fernandez).

The music is (almost) all Pameis and all seductive, marrying splendid melodies and inspiring rhythms to produce an appetizing feast for the ears and heart. Liebman is typically supple and fluent on "Time to Say" (a tribute, Pameis writes, to Chick Corea), on which the leader frames one of his several eloquent solos). Following the through-composed (and thoroughly delightful) "Puerta de Oro," Norris and Thomas command center stage, delivering sharp and perceptive solos on the prismatic "Sleep Delirium" and rhythmically delightful "Dudu." Gilkes is similarly articulate on the meditative "Ultima Rezo" ("the last prayer," a paean to Pamies' grandmother), while Torres and Rodriguez assume leading roles on "Corazonada," Pameis' tribute to a colleague and friend, the late bassist Jeff Eckels.

Kenny Wheeler's brisk and sunny "Miold Man," the only item on the menu not cooked up by Pameis, is another platform on which Gilkes, Norris and Torres unveil their impressive chops before D'Rivera (on clarinet) and the ensemble neatly seal the pleasing package via the charming "Nana para Sergito." If seductive melodies with a strong rhythmic pulse make up your music of choice, it is Time to Say that might make its mark on you.

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