Acustico
Sony, 2019
8/10
A 3 time Grammy Nominated outfit, this 10th album from Negroni’s Trio brings their esteemed bass, piano and drums formula to a new level of Latin Jazz prowess with the aptly titled Acustico.
“Let’s Go Camping” starts the listen with dynamic percussion, vivid keys and a free jazz formula that’s as wild as it is calculated, and this continues to the rhythmic and powerful “Air”, as well as the furious pace and busy setting of “I Remember You”.
The back half of the listen is equally unpredictable, with the scattered vocals of “No Me Voy De Aqui”, while “Cantando” breeds timeless melodies in its memorable execution. Deeper cuts like “I Hear A Rhapsody”, which is 1 of 3 covers present, are filled with glorious and hypnotic musicianship, and “Monica’s Drums” exits the listen percussive strong with quieter moments amid the tumbling creativity where the drum solos are nothing short of superb.
Comprised of a father and son team of Jose Negroni on keys and piano, while his son, Nomar Negroni, handles drums and percussion, the acoustic bass is held down by Josh Allen. Together, the trio birth both intimate and busy landscapes, where a unique energy offers rhythm and melody in unconventional ways that you’re not likely to hear anywhere else.
Travels well with: Eddie Palmieri- Mi Luz Mayor; Frank Colon- Latin Lounge