| Latin Jazz |
Here, we stand before a significant chapter in New York’s history, one that traces its roots back to the golden age of the Spanish Harlem. To delve into this vibrant past, I highly recommend the excellent film Palladium Era – Golden Age Of Dance (available here), which chronicles the evolution of this music and the dance that flourished alongside it.
For those eager to explore the history of Latin music in greater depth, I suggest the outstanding two-part BBC documentary:
With these three documentaries, you will gain a broad perspective on the profound influence of these musical styles, including their impact on contemporary jazz. This album, therefore, stands as an invaluable cultural artifact—an exceptional sonic document of the highest quality. Here is everything you need to know about it:
Salsa music was born and emerged in El Barrio (Spanish Harlem) of New York during the 1960s. Legendary artists such as Willie Colón, Héctor Lavoe, Celia Cruz, Ray Barretto, Orestes Vilató, and Tito Puente played a pivotal role in shaping mainstream music in the United States, propelling its feverish rise across the globe. By the 1980s, salsa dancing experienced a surge in popularity, fueled by the expansion of dance clubs, instructors, and DJs.
Simultaneously, Latin jazz witnessed a renaissance in Cuba, the Caribbean, and the U.S., driven by artists such as Danilo Pérez, Grupo Irakere, and Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Influential Cuban dance bands, including Los Van Van, NG La Banda, and the legendary bassist and composer Israel “Cachao” López, achieved worldwide success, revitalizing both partnered dance and Latin jazz. These elements contributed to a renewed global appreciation of Latin musical styles, reaffirming their significance and lasting influence.
The San Francisco Bay Area has long been a thriving hub for salsa and Latin jazz, nurtured by remarkable musicians such as Cal Tjader, Armando Peraza, Carlos Federico, the Escovedo brothers, John Santos, Roger Glenn, and many more. This dynamic community continues to grow, inspiring fresh musical innovations within the genre. — Wayne Wallace
Indeed, listening to this album is a breathtaking experience—it immerses us in an extraordinarily rich culture, one that captivates with its rhythms, vibrant colors, and profound melodic sensibility. The necessity of this double album is undeniable, and its carefully curated track order brilliantly aligns with the history of these musical traditions. The performances, executed with masterful artistry, are a testament to the depth and brilliance of the musicians involved.
Let us take a moment to salute the exceptional artists featured on this album:
- PETE ESCOVEDO
- AZABACHE
- LOS KIMBOS 90’S
- TANAORA
- BOBI CÉSPEDES
- RITMO Y CANDELA
- LA MIXTA CRIOLLA
- WAYNE WALLACE LATIN JAZZ QUINTET
- ROGER GLENN
- CARLOS FEDERICO
- KAT PARRA
- ORQUESTA BATACHANGA
- RICO PABÓN
- PACIFIC MAMBO ORCHESTRA
- ESTRELLAS DE LA BAHIA
A truly stellar ensemble, more than deserving of recognition in our collection of Essential Albums.
Thierry De Clemensat
USA correspondent – Paris-Move and ABS magazine
Editor in chief Bayou Blue Radio, Bayou Blue News
PARIS-MOVE, March 9th 2025
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