Cortadito
JGB, 2025
8/10
The guitarist Jose Guzman leads his ensemble, The Afro-Caribbean Jazz Collective, through 7 rhythmic tunes across this 3rd album.
“Orchard Downs” opens the festivities with Victor Garica’s animated trumpet alongside the playful percussion, and “Holande Pa Uste” follows with Guzman’s spirited guitar and Brian Star’s radiant sax making an impression.
Halfway through, “El Reloj” trims the pace back with an intimate mood that benefits from the hazy wind and brass, while “Witches Dance” offers a lively and soulful bout thanks to Andrey Goncalvez’s frisky bass.
“El Volcan” exits and allows for Ben Carrasquillo’s well timed trombone to complement the flowing melodies, cultured interaction and worldly flavor of the album’s best.
Other players include Javier Quintana (congas and barril), Victor Gonzalez (bongos and bell), Michael Rodriguez (timbales), Jose Natal (barril), Enrique Chavez (percussion) and Connor Frederick (trombone), who help flesh out an exciting, global affair that touches on bebop, jazz, classical and rock.
Travels well with: Naseem Alatrash- Bright Colors On A Dark Canvas; Bijan Taghavi- Cactus Sessions