Usual geopolitical concerns are temporarily suspended in favor of this authentic and joyful cross-cultural musical exploration. Produced by American jazz pianist Mark Kramer and Cuban percussionist Al Aguilera*, this recording celebrates the unique brew of Cuban Folk, American Jazz, Classical European, and Spanish influences in Cuban popular music, the latter banned after ~1960 in Cuba. The disc 1) features works by Cuban composer icons 2) plays as unique, and 3) recreates a steamy island atmosphere. This seamless pairing of a thoroughly American jazz pianist with a true Cuban percussionist is timely. Usual geopolitical concerns are temporarily suspended in favor of this authentic and joyful cross-cultural exploration.
* Al Aguilera led a house jazz band at Johnny’s Dream in Havana during the 70s and 80s. During this time when Jazz was outlawed in CUBA, Al, Paquito d’Rivera and Chucho Valdez, became friends. (Both endorse the CD.)