The Latin Side Of McCoy Tyner
Savant, 2024
9/10
Listen to The Latin Side Of McCoy Tyner
The inimitable trombonist and composer Conrad Herwig is joined by Craig Handy, Alex Norris, Bill O’Connell, Robby Ameen, Ruben Rodriguez and Camilo Molina for these 10 lively Latin jazz tracks.
“African Village” opens the listen with Molina’s cultured congas, bata and vocals that are complemented by O’Connell’s warm keys and plenty of rich brass, and “Passion Dance” follows with an infectious energy via Handy’s fluid sax and Herwig’s well timed trombone.
Halfway through, “Mellow Minor” offers a calmer moment, where Ameen’s agile drumming suits Norris’ powerful trumpet, while “Search For Peace” carries a charming intimacy thanks to Rodriguez’s precise bass plucking and the heartfelt trombone.
“Blues On The Corner” and “Reaching Fourth” arrive at the end. The former blends the winds and horns alongside a lively rhythm section, and the latter bops and shakes with colorful dynamics and melodic sensibilities that emit a worldly flavor.
Herwig’s accomplishments are lengthy, and include multiple Grammy Nominations and nearly 30 albums as leader. Here we’re treated to another first rate body of work, where authenticity is present amid a dance-friendly mood that’s instantly memorable.
Travels well with: Emiliano Lasansky- The Optimist; Matthew McDonald- The Long Wait