Gabriel Espinosa – SONGS OF BACHARACH AND MANZANERO: When it comes to Latin jazz, with ultimate-cool vocals and superb bass work, you won’t find anything better on the scene today. I’ve reviewed Gabriel’s work before on some of his albums with Hendrik Meurkens (and Hendrik plays on several of the tunes here, as well), but this is the first one I’ve gotten that featured him as bassist-composer-arranger.
As you listen to tunes like the 5:09 opener, “Adoro“, you’ll fall in love with Gabriel’s vocal talent… and you’ll hear some of the most talented players you’ll ever listen to (check the label release page for the player list). Tierney Sutton’s vocal on “The Look of Love” is fresh and unique, and will brighten up your day in so many ways! This album is the best “tribute” I’ve heard in a long time.
Gabriel plays bass on three of the tracks – the one I found most aurally attractive is his arrangement of “Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head“… this surely isn’t what you may have been expecting… totally unique style from all the players on this track. Of the ten tunes offered up, it is the laid-back & lazy atmosphere on “Cuando Estoy Contigo” that got my vote for personal favorite… some of the sweetest Latin jazz you’ll hear this year! I give Gabriel and his musical companions a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of 4.97 for this splendid album. Get more information on the Zoho Records page for the release. Rotcod Zzaj
