Chris Trinidad y Con Todo
Iridium, 2019
8/10
Listen to Chris Trinidad y Con Todo
The Filipino-Canadian bass player and songwriter Chris Trinidad actually wrote this batch of tunes on cruise ships in the Caribbean before letting them sit for nearly two decades. Now, they’ve been formally laid down, and spotlight Latin ideas with no shortage of rhythm and melodies and with a handful of esteemed players on hand.
“Luna Nueva En Mi Mente (New Moon In Mind)” starts the listen with vibrant trumpet from Bill Ortiz, as Carlos Caro’s strong percussion adds much to the lively rhythm, and “Ojos Abiertos (Eyes Open)” follows with dreamy flute prowess thanks to Tod Dickow as Jamie Dubberly’s proficient trombone complements the festive spirit.
Halfway through, “Llegando A La Razon (Arrive To Reason)” trims the pace back with a soulful quality where Trinidad’s sublime guitar playing sees help from trumpet and flute, while “La Esencia De La Intención (Essence Of The Intention)” gets playful and very melodic while highlighting Anthony Blea’s violin.
Near the end, “Hasta Entonces, Mi Amigo (Until Then, My Friend)” dances with a cultured energy that shakes and shuffles amid a punchy delivery, and “Espíritu Del Antiguo Sol (Old Sun In Spirit)” exits the listen with some of the best singing from Perez and Durandy, who spread vocals out across just 3 tracks, but use them effectively.
For fans of Latin jazz, songo, timba, piena, cha cha and salsa, Trinidad and company deliver an exciting and exhilarating listen here, and one that you’re not likely to forget anytime soon.
Travels well with: Duende Libre- The Dance She Spoke; Cúano- Rayuela