Paquito D'Rivera: Tropicana Nights

Big Band Mambo! Paquito D’Rivera steers this Latin Big Band Lovefest like a float at Carnival. Sharp rhythms, crisp timing with crackling high brass make Tropacana Nights a hearty musical romp. D’Rivera has been making music of a consistently high level since the early ‘80s. He has performed with Dizzy Gillespie, Astor Piazzola, Gloria Estefan, among other related Latin performers relating to all with a rare synergism. His leadership here is complete and effective. His command of the Latin side of jazz is without dispute and well represented here. This disc is heavy on the Cubano upbeat, even in the ballads, expressing all of the positively of the music. For the leader himself, D’Rivera performs with spicy panache, whether on clarinet or saxophones. The band is brass happy, particularly in the trumpet section. As always with the Latin side, percussion is present and exceptional. A satisfying set for all Latin fans. These are tunes to sweat to while having a cool cocktail.