Caribbean Jazz Project: Here and Now—Live in Concert

Latin Beat Magazine, Feb, 2005 by Rudy Mangual

Founded in 1993 by mallet master Dave Samuels in association with Cuban woodwind master Paquito D'Rivera and pan master Andy Narell, the Caribbean Jazz Project rapidly became one of the main exponents of the Latin jazz genre. Active for over a decade, with six critically acclaimed recordings, the Grammy Award-winning ensemble has also featured the talents of flutist Dave Valentín, guitarist Steve Khan and trumpeter Ray Vega in its many incarnations.

Regardless of the different musicians flowing through CJP, Dave Samuels' vibraphone and marimba virtuosity has been the constant flavor throughout the existence of the group. This latest recording on the Concord Picante label captures the powerful ensemble live in concert for the very first time performing at the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild (a center for the arts and learning in Pittsburgh, PA). Joining Samuels on stage were drummer Mark Walker, pianist Dario Eskenazi and bassist Oscar Stagnaro, charter members of the band who have toured and appeared on most of the ensemble's previous recordings. Completing the ensemble are trumpeter Diego Urcola and percussionist Roberto Quintero.

This two-CD set features this latest edition of the CJP performing some of their all time favorites, composed by Samuels and other original members of the band, as well as some jazz classics exposed to the rejuvenating musical powers of the CJP. Standouts include Samuels' Five For Elvin (tribute to the late jazz drummer Elvin Jones) and Arthur's Dance (a Cuban danzón). From pianist Eskenazi there's the tasty chachachá On the Road and from bassist Stagnaro the composition Mariella's Drearn. Other favorites in the recording are the Ellington/Tizol classic Caravan, Coltrane's Naima and Oliver Nelson's Stolen Moments. Experience some of the best improvisational and experimental music influenced by jazz and Latin music.