Jane Bunnett Cuban Odyssey CD

CUBAN ODYSSEY was nominated for the 2004 Grammy Award for Best Latin Jazz Album.

Composer/soprano saxophonist Jane Bunnett has shown a sustained and loving interest in the music of Cuba. CUBAN ODYSSEY continues Bunnett's work within the island's rich tradition. Although two of Bunnett's own compositions frame the track list, these recordings are distinguished by the move away from jazz-centered structures toward the traditional folk music of the provinces surrounding Havana.

With over 80 Cuban musicians peppering the sessions, and indigenous percussion adding propulsive rhythmic groundwork, Bunnett's role here (although she plays both flute and soprano sax beautifully throughout) is more impresario than leader. Many of the tracks feature group vocals, call and response sections, complex harmonies, and celebratory atmosphere. The tone changes with three tracks by the remarkable Descendann, a 10-voice Haitian choir--their music is melancholic, haunting, and beautiful. The poignant voice of the late Merceditas Valdes threads itself through a raucous chorus on the danceable "A la Rumba." As an experiment in synthesizing tones, styles, and cultures, CUBAN ODYSSEY is a document of the island's spectacular heritage.

Tata Guines, Maximino, Lazaro Banderas (congas); Raul Hernandez (timbales); Vladimir Paisan (bata drum); Los Naranjos De Cienfuegos, Los Munequitos De Matanzas.

Includes liner notes by Bob Bernotas.

Personnel: Jane Bunnett (soprano saxophone, flute); Nene, Merceditas Valdes, Bobby Carcasses, Amando Deudeu, Sr., Amando Deudeu, Jr., Chabalongo, Ernesto Gatell, Santa Cruz, Lazaro Rizo, Caridad, Group Vocal Descendann (vocals); Larry Cramer, Thommy Rojas (trumpet); Guillermo Rubalcaba, Hilario Duran, David Virelles (piano); Papi Oviedo (tres); Roberto Occhipinti (acoustic bass); Palma (bass); Francisco Mela (drums); Pancho Quinto, Marcos Diaz,

Award Winner

JazzTimes (4/03, p.82) - "...Important is the skill with which Bunnett integrates her flute and soprano sax into the Cubans' music, giving us the best of the past and the contemporary..."