Live In Los Angeles
Moondo, 2022
8/10
An exceptional jazz pianist, composer, arranger and vocalist, Rique Pantoja has enjoyed a lengthy and esteemed career alongside some of the biggest names in American and Brazilian jazz. Here, along with an all-star band, we’re treated to 8 diverse jazz compositions that are very much world music influenced and were first released in 2001.
“Arpoador” opens the listen with elegant keys that welcomes playful drumming and spirited guitar in the very rhythmic and cultured 9+ minutes, and “Julinho” follows with soulful sax illuminating the dreamy climate that flows with melodic jazz.
Halfway through, the charming flute of “Da Baiana” complements the frisky percussion and well timed bass, while “Bebop Kid” moves with a gorgeous intimacy as Pantoja’s stirring pipes guide the poetic album highlight.
“Morena” and “Pra Lili” exit the listen, where the former bounces with a bright energy thanks to the dynamic rhythm section and glowing brass, and the latter allows all the players to contribute their vast skill to the meticulous and sublime finish.
Steve Tavaglione (sax, flute), Jimmy Earl (bass), Joel Taylor (drums), Ricardo Silveira (guitar), and Cassio Duarte (percussion) all accompany Pantoja, and their vital contributions help make for a complex and truly timeless affair that, 21 years after its original release, sounds just as great today.
Travels well with: Jimmy Branly Trio- The Meeting; Chris Standring- Simple Things