Chucho Valdes - Jazz Batá (2007) [Irakere] torrent

“Jazz Batá” was recorded in Havana in 1972 and 1982. This glimpse into the brilliant pianist at different eras and in differing contexts stands as a piece of vital Cuban jazz. Opening with "Irakere," a song that pointed to the group that Chucho Valdes would co-found with Arturo Sandoval and Paquito D’Rivera the following year, Valdes is simply brilliant.

The first five of the 10 performances presented here were recorded in 1972 on an album entitled "Jazz Batá." All are extraordinary. He is percussive on "Son No. 2" and harmonic while bordering on outside on the brilliant "Neurosis." The solo piano on both "Laureen" and "Palia" are lush and emotive, at times reminding of Bill Evans, though perhaps more exploratory and adventurous.

The second set of recordings, from 1982, reflect the post-Irakere Valdes who had realized his dream of leading an adventurous and critically acclaimed large ensemble. This quintet date was originally released as "Tema de Chaka." The title piece from these sessions features the fiery tenor of German Velazco and Valdes’ explosive chill-generating pianistics. All are underlined by a busy rhythm section that threatens to run away with the tune.

Chucho Valdes is simply one of the most important and dynamic musicians to emerge from Cuba ever.


Chucho Valdés

Jazz Batá

2007


CD / 2007 / Remastered / 320Kbps


Tracklist:

1. Irakere

2. Son Nº 2

3. Neurosis

4. Laureen

5. Palia

6. Tema de Chaka

7. Rabo de Nube

8. Zanaith

9. Son Para Leyanis

10. Claudia


This CD release includes the complete LP "Jazz Batá" (Areíto LP, 1972, tracks #1-5) and all of the tracks (except "Tritón") from the album "Tema de Chaka" (Areíto LP, 1982, tracks #6-10).


Personnel:

Chucho Valdés (p)
with
Carlos del Puerto (b), Oscar Valdés (perc), Carlos Emilio Morales (g),
Germán Velazco (sax, fl), Enrique Plá (d) & Jorge El Niño Alfonso (congas)


Chucho Valdés / Jazz Batá / 2007