Chilcano

Latin Beat Magazine, March, 1997 by Rudolph Mangual

JOSÉ LUIS MADUEÑO

(Song-o-sau'rus)

Peruvian pianist/composer José Luis Madueño makes his recording debut with this extraordinary CD titled Chilcano. Gifted with an intimate understanding of Afro-Peruvian styles as well as years of studying harmony and orchestration, Madueño's music is like a breath of fresh air right out of the Andes. His compositions represent a new form of Latin jazz, one which is rich in tonal brilliance, and sophisticated arrangements. Through a dozen compositions, Chilcano displays Peruvian rhythms like the festejo, lando, and the zamacueca rather than the customary/Cuban counterparts so abused in today's Latin jazz music. Brazilian flavors such as baiao and bossa nova are also present and help shape this melodic journey of true Latín jazz music. World-class players abound, like percussionist Alex Acuña, bassists John Patitucci, Oscar Stagnaro and John Peña among others, José Luis Madueño delivers an impressive blend of jazz a la Latino with enough genuina flavorto excite most aficionados of this musical form. Choice tracks include Moonspark, Nicas Dream, Chilcano, and Witch Doctor in the Alley. A true attempt at expanding the boundaries of Latín jazz.