Bobby Sanabria Big Band: Multiverse

Another fine jazz album making its way into my CD this year is Multiverse, the new release by Bobby Sanabria and his Big Band. The sound is indeed 'big' as Sanabria celebrates his Latin and Cuban roots in fine style.

Sanabria grew up in the South Bronx where he developed his musical roots and honed a myriad of influences culminating in the Latin/World infused jazz we hear today. The musicians, as we have come to expect from a major jazz release, are excellent and the sound is vibrant and dynamic.

The Salsa/Latin grooves start fast and furious with the album opening "The French Connection", originally released in 1972 and featuring guest saxophonist Chris Washburne on dijeridoo. The band fires on all cylinders with Sanabria's spicy percussion leading the way. In the playful "Cachita" a deep freewheeling percussion groove settles in before stellar saxophone solos steal the spotlight. For more great brass check out the alto and soprano sax solos in the catchy "Broken Heart" or for a more romantic sound the band rearranges the timeless classic "Over The Rainbow" and does an excellent job.

The most ambitious track is probably "Afro-Cuban Jazz Suite For Ellington" where the band incorporates some classic Ellington pieces, giving them their own unique Latin infused spin.

Multiverse is a fitting title to what is an interesting and diverse jazz album. If there is such a thing as 'feel good' music this must be it. Highly recommended for those who love Big Band and Latin sounds.

Track Listing:
1. The French Connection (5:50)
2. Cachita (9:34)
3. Jump Shot (5:32)
4. Over the Rainbow (7:00)
5. iQue Viva Candido! (7:53)
6. Wordsworth Ho! (4:42)
7. Speak No Evil (4:45)
8. Broken Heart (8:06)
9. Afro-Cuban Jazz Suite For Ellington (13:47)
10. The Chicken/From Havana To Harlem – 100 Years Of Mario Bauzá (8:45)

Added: January 7th 2013
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Artist's Official Site
Hits: 1900
Language: english

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