Walter Gorra - In Due Time (2018)

In Due Time is a tribute to the wonderful individuals that have contributed so much to my development as a pianist, composer, and person. Coming up in the state of Colorado, I was fortunate to have been surrounded by so many supportive musicians and non-musicians alike. Friends and family - this work is for you. The album features seven of my original compositions and one Cuban bolero. I hope that you enjoy the music, and that it brings you a small piece of joy to your life.

Good things take time. In Due Time is a case in point. The album was recorded while I finished a master’s degree in structural engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder, and completed while I began a second graduate degree in jazz composition at William Paterson University in New Jersey. Between moving across the country and beginning to establish myself as a young professional, releasing the album took time - over two years’ worth. And yet, here is the finished product, and I am very happy to finally share this deeply personal music.

For his debut recording, In Due Time, Walter teamed up with his long-time band mates; Gonzalo Teppa-bass, Manuel López-drums/percussion, and Greg Tanner-Harris on vibraphone. Moreover, Josh Quinlan is the guest tenor saxophonist on four tracks. From the first notes of this session to the final coda, the Walter Gorra Quartet will capture your ears and attention with their brilliant playing, imaginative compositions and superb swinging! The experience these gentlemen have playing together produces some magical music moments. You can hear how they anticipate each other - they make seamless segues in tempos; from playing in unison to taking their solos. Gonzalo is a world class bassist; his bowing to open the immortal Cuban classic Nosotros is spellbinding. He also throws down some amazing licks whenever he solos. Señor López is the ideal drummer and percussionist for this ensemble - he knows exactly which accents are needed for each tune. Check out his solo at the end of Jazongo. Greg never ceases to impress me - his work on vibes never clashes with Walter’s piano, and that’s not easy to accomplish. His majestic playing adds extra shine to every track. Tenor man Josh was one of Walter’s instructors at CU-Boulder and is a first call saxophonist. The addition of his horn on four of Gorra’s compositions is a welcome treat. And Walter is an inspired writer whose music is influenced by his life experiences. The final track-Rumba Pa’ Senén, the most Cuban entry, is a dedication to Walter’s beloved paternal grandfather who sadly passed away recently. That song alongside Adentro y Afuera (Inside & Outside), Jazongo and Nosotros are my four favorites of the eight outstanding tracks. So, although I never got to see a fruit tree planted by me give its fruit, I have been fortuitous to see Walter Gorra and his quartet blossom into one of the best up-and-coming ensembles in the world of jazz, and I look forward to enjoying their abundant musical fruit for years to come!