Trio Libre
Blue Conga, 2026
9/10
The percussionist and composer Samuel Torres is joined by Carmen Staaf and Felipe Fournier for these originals that surround our current sociopolitical environment.
The 6 chapters of “We The People” starts the listen with Staaf’s mesmerizing keys and Fournier’s playful vibes amid Torres’ unpredictable percussion that radiates a lush and reflective mood of grace and sophistication.
“Libre” arrives on the back half and blends the keys, vibes and drums with no lack of melodic gestures, while “Tu, Mi Vida Entera” finds a more intimate place to reside via the cautious piano, cozy vibes and cozy drumming that eventually invites harmonic singing.
“J.S. Bach: Duet No. 1 in E minor, (BWV 802)” exits, and it’s a meticulous and dynamic display of strong chemistry between the trio that puts a fresh coat of paint on the Baroque sounds.
Torres already has an exceptional resume with plenty of awards under his belt, and this enlightening effort will gain him even more attention, where chamber music and Afro Latin-American rhythmic ideas meet at a very exciting intersection.
Travels well with: Audrey Ochoa- The Sorceress; Jimmy Farace- Big Shoulders, Big Sounds