Herencia Criolla
Self-Released, 2022
8/10
The piano wizard and composer Josean Jacobo knows his way around a diverse, cultured jazz tune, and here along with Daroll Méndez (upright bass) and Otoniel Nicolás (drums), plus many guests, he mixes Afro-Dominican ideas with timeless jazz sensibilities.
The title track starts the listen with hypnotic keys and intricate drumming, as playful bass plucking enters the lively and worldly jazz, and “San Miguel” follows with swift piano and dynamic percussion that lends itself to bare as well as busy moments.
Halfway through, “Dos Locos” recruits Miguel Zenón on alto sax for the sublime beauty, that, later on, gets a bit frisky, while “Bachata Rosa” showcases Ramón Vázquez’s upright bass on the album’s best, that’s full of complicated rhythm and charming jazz exploration.
“Quisqueya” exits the listen and presents Félix García on tambora for the excellent bass drumming, strategic bass and very accomplished textures of flourishing jazz.
A fascinating peek into Caribbean culture and with an incredible rhythm section in attendance, Jacobo and company pen a Latin Jazz adventure that’s sure to not be missed.
Travels well with: Kalí Rodriguez-Pena- Mélange; Alex ‘Apolo’ Ayala- Bámbula