|
|
 |
On this 13-track recording of voice and piano duets, there is no doubt from the first note to the last that you are experiencing the complete mastery of two Cuban music legends. Individually, the genius Valdés brings to his instrument, the piano, and the dramatic, bluesy, off-the-cuff singing (in Spanish) of the husky, pitch-perfect, purely articulated Portuondo, can both easily stand alone. But together, in this setting, they are making magic. You'll hear a variety of themes written by non-published Cuban composers (two by Valdés, ) suggested on the spot in the studio. It allows the two a rare spontaneity and freedom from rhythmic structures that is created, not produced. There are songs of love, regret, straight blues, the indomitable spirit of the oppressed Cuban peoples, pleading for salvation, and especially, lost in depression ("No Puedo Ser Feliz" ("Cannot Be Happy"). No need to break them down, just know that the razor's-edge emotions and the integrity of this simpatico pairing of musicians and friends melds perfectly with every twist, turn, phrase, dynamic shading, and teardrop. Valdés uses a raft of jazz inflections, classical references, and folk melodies at his command throughout. Portuondo is never limp or mushy, always forceful in singing what's on her troubled mind, and expresses it in a way you clearly understand even if you don't know the words. Her meaning is unmistakable. A triumphant recording to be sure, and a hallmark in the annals of the continuing attempt to expose American audiences to the rich traditions of folkloric jazz-informed Afro-Cuban culture. A must buy. ~ Michael G. Nastos
Recorded at Ojala Studios, Havana, Cuba on January 29 & 30, 1997. Includes liner notes by Adolfo Montejo, Jose Ma. Garcia Martinez and Demetrio Munoz.
Personnel: Omara Portuondo (vocals).
Audio Mixers: A.J. Domenech; Hugo Westerdahl.
Liner Note Author: Demetrio Muniz.
Recording information: Ojalá Studios, Havana, Cuba (01/29/1997/01/30/1997).
Editors: A.J. Domenech; Hugo Westerdahl.
Photographer: Manuel Dominguez.
Personnel: Omara Portuondo (vocals); Chucho Valdes (piano).
JazzTimes (5/00, pp.132-4) - "...The famed Cuban vocalist collaborates with the equally illustrious pianist....[They] improvise together, going where the song leads them, and taking us along on these arabesque journeys of love and loss."
Desafios Review
GuidelinesRemember to focus your comments on Desafios CD. Check our review guidelines for specific details regarding customer review policy. To submit your review, please fill out the above form and click "Submit Review." A staff member will then verify your review meets our guidelines. Upon approval, your review will be published within a few days. Please do not use this form to comment on web site errors or for order related questions. If you have concerns of this nature, please contact customer service by filling out this form.
Purchase Desafios CD
To buy, Click on price to add to cart
|
|
|
|
|
Share this Product