Here are my noteable Latin CD picks for 2006!
Listen Here – Eddie Palmieri
Grammy winning Palmieri does it again — this time celebrating his 50 year career with an all star band. Featuring Michael Brecker, Regina Carter, Christian McBride, Nicholas Payton, David Sanchez and John Scofield.
From the Heart – Hilario Duran
Cuban/Canadian Duran is at his finest with this big band recording. Along with bassist Roberto Occhipinti and Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez, the band also features Paquito d'Rivera.
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Baile – Pablo Mayor's Folklore Urbano
An interesting combination of folkloric rythms and danceable beats that will no doubt enter one's bloodstream!
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Kaiso Blue – Canefire
A beautiful mixture of influences from the Caribbean featuring compositions from Canada's Jeremy Ledbetter. Featuring Andy Narrell on steel pan and Eliana Cuevas on vocals.
Radio Guantanamo – Jane Bunnett
A departure from Bunnett's previous work — this time paying tribute to the Blues — combining the traditional Changui music of Guantamo, Cuba and the blues of New Orleans. Featuring the Spirits of Havana and guests Jumpin Johnny Sansone, Howard Johnson, Kevin Breit and the groups Changui de Guantamo and Changui de Santiago. This album received a much deserved Juno Award.
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Telmary – Telmary
A spoken-word star in Cuba, Telmary gathers many Cuban performers who were eager to guest star on this unique album.
Bebo de Cuba – Bebo Valdes
This double CD features legendary composer and pianist Bebo Valdes. "Suite Cubana" showcases the all star big band including Andy Gonzales, Mario Rivera, Steve barrios, and Paquito D'Rivera. "El Solar de Bebo" highlights more traditional danza, joropo and ballads of Valdes. A masterpiece.
Balance – Sara Tavares
Tavares' sweet vocals and rhythmic compositions make this an album to be played over and over. Easy to see why this singer is becoming world renowned.
Buscando Mi Voz – Nicolas Hernandez
Beautiful flamenco music from Hernandez who has been a core member of the Esmeralda Enriquez Flamenco Dance Company. Music that will hook even the novice flamenco listener.
Siesta – Kevin Laliberte
Canadian Laliberte knows how to sooth the soul with his melodic compositions. An accomplished guitarist whose music goes straight to the heart.
Cimarron – Luis Mario Ochoa
This big band features many of the great Latin Jazz artists in Canada including Alexis Baro, Rosendo Chendy Leon, Luis Orbegoso. Invited guest Paquito D'Rivera is a highlight. Music to get one dancing!!
