Search - Mayra Casales :: Woman on Fire: Mujer Ardiente

An excellent artist steps out on her own

Il Moro di Venezia | Seattle, WA | 03/19/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"For years I've known Mayra Casales as the percussionist for Regina Carter's ensemble. While I thoroughly enjoyed her in that role I never suspected the depth of her talent. "Woman on Fire: Mujer Ardiente" makes it clear that it's well and truly time for her to step into her own spotlight.



On this recording Casales shows off her skill and her range. Not only as a percussionist, but also as a fine singer (so fine, in fact, that she stands well with guest singer Carmen Lundy). The collection of songs on this CD are a variety of Latin-jazz pieces with the exception of a pair of beautiful ballads sung by Casales, most notably her solo voice-and-piano arrangement of "For All We Know" which closes out the CD. On the Latin numbers you really get to hear and feel Casales' Cuban roots come to the forefront as she demonstrates tricky interplay and changes as on the charanga-charged "Is It Love" (co-composed by Casales and Lundy). Mellower selections are no less enjoyable, like "Pipo" (featuring Regina Carter on violin) which feels like a cool Mojito on a warm Caribbean beach.



Fans of Cuban music and Latin-jazz now have a new artist to keep their eyes on. pick this CD up and look forward to more releases from the talented Mayra Casales."