Search - Chuchito Valdes :: Encantado

Jesus "Chuchito" Valdés Jr. is a third-generation pianist in one of the most distinguished musical families from his homeland of Cuba. He currently lives in Cancun, Mexico, and tours regularly with his Afro-Cuban Latin-jazz ensemble. Encantado is his first album as a leader and it features the Australian-born, Chicago-resident Laksar Reese on saxophones and flute. Three covers, including John Coltrane's "Giant Steps" and Billy Strayhorn's "Impressions of 'Take the A Train'," join six originals. The Valdés-Reese number "Andariego" shows this tight and percussive ensemble to be as dazzling as any Latin band currently working. Trumpet player Tito Carillo joins Reese for pristine melodic excursions over the alternately fiery and subtle drums, congas, and percussion. Over the course of the disc, Valdés's playing and writing embraces Afro-Cuban motifs, balladry, and various Central and South American dance idioms. --David Greenberger