JazzTrenzz’s Clef Notes
Spicy composition and rebel arrangements make this year’s entry to the Latin jazz scene of Claudia Acuna and Arturo O’Farrill’s, a push-n-play of sizzling-seductive potency. In These Shoes steps into the Latin jazz circle with calculating excellence carved out of the classic Latin texture.
This international spin has a heavy-ivory base with the crisp strokes of Grammy nominated Arturo O’Farrill, who has composed a highly respectable journal for himself. The classic Latino string methods of Adam Rogers flows along side the O’Farrill accompaniment.... add the exquisite timing and appeal of vocalist Claudia Acuna, thus the expedition to sway commences. Spicy rhythms and melodies set the disk afire with gritty momentum.
A powerful cut within this project is the interpretation of Morrison’s "Moondance", the resonance hits you with urgency as the arrangement stimulates curiosity, being percussion-heavy with the intro, and the grooves kindle a high degree of anticipation of where O’Farrill is going with this classic. He succeeds but not without the up-tempo vocals of Acuna addressing the lyrical groove. Catch if you can, a Coltrane influence!
"In These Shoes" may be the title cut that showcases Acuna’s endearing lyricism however I disagree. I found the innocent senses more pronounce and defining of Acuna’s attitudes in "Paciencia," a delivery that portrays the humility of man and the equal importance of all things, large and small, in our life. A true to tempo spin which needs more play!
In These Shoes has kept the tradition of the Latin sway true to form and vibrant without compromising the core values of the cultural opus. This, for the Latin jazz fan is a shelving must. For those with open minds and hearts, this will not go unnoticed by you.... enjoy.... I did!
Karl Stober is a freelance critic and journalist who is still looking for the meaning of life through music. If you wish to contact for interviews, reviews, or projects email @ This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .
