Billy Wooten - Live at the Madame Theatre (1994/2013)

A smoking live set from vibesman Billy Wooten – recorded with a slightly Latin mode, thanks to backing from his hip Music Royale ensemble! Wooten's vibes are as sharp and soulful here as on any of his great 70s recordings – and the added fire of the Latin group really helps Billy find some great new grooves – almost Cal Tjader territory at times, but with a harder approach overall – as you might expect! The group's a big one – and although the set features a bit of vocals from female singers, the overall setting is instrumental – and very lively throughout. Titles include "Giving", "Alaba Luce", "Lay Bare The Heart", "Dejame Sonar", and "Transformation".

Tracks:

01. Night in Tunisia (9:19)
02. Giving (3:44)
03. Alaba Luce (9:33)
04. Lay Bare the Heart (5:13)
05. Dejame Sonar (7:42)
06. Transformation (3:01)
07. Dancing & Singing (5:32)
08. Co Co Se Co (9:12)

Personnel:

Jesus Florida - violin
George "Sparky" Smith - conductor, alto saxophone, flute
Mike McFarland, Ivan Benson - Latin percussion
Larry Clark - percussion
Jonathan - wood bass
Carl Hines - piano
Clifford Ratliff, Allen Miller, Mike Schofield - trumpet
James Pratt, Jim Hicks - trombone
David Young - tenor saxophone
Alonzo "Pookie" Johnson - alto saxophone
Robert "Bert" Parrish - baritone saxophone
Dave Laskey - guitar
Willie Ramos - bass
Billy Wooten - vibes
Maria Sciliano, Shana - vocals