Bobby Matos - Made by Hand (2004)

Tracklist

01 - Afro Blue
02 - Babara Milagrosa
03 - Descarga Cubana
04 - El Montuno De Almeja
05 - Llegue
06 - Philadelphia Mambo
07 - Oye Mi Querida
08 - Lluvia Con Nieve

Bobby Matos has long been a major force in Latin or Afro-Cuban jazz on timbales, percussion, and as a bandleader. This CD, recorded at a concert in Pasadena, has an appealing horn section with Mike Turre and Frank Fontane both playing flutes and various saxes, and Jacques Voymant adding his lyrical trombone to the mix. With pianist Victor Cegarra, bassist Eliseo, and three percussionists, the octet is well-balanced and tight. Three of Matos' friends occasionally contribute cora vocals that add to the variety. Most of the music has the feel of a descarga (a Cuban jam session) and each of the principals has plenty of solo space. Fans of Afro-Cuban jazz will certainly enjoy this spirited set.~Scott Yanow