On Mambo 2000, L.A.-based composer and conguero Johnny Blas lays down breezy West Coast melodies on top of dance-friendly Latin rhythms with an unusual octet featuring up to four trombonists, including jazz critic Dan Weinstein. While the largely original set hinges on the sleek interplay of Mark Gutierrez's traditional Afro-Cuban piano motifs and syncopated dialogues between the bandleader and co-percussionist Jose DeLeon, the bone quartet often takes the lead, playing simple tunes with little variation in the harmonic arrangements. Though descendent from the pioneering mambo sound of Tito Puente and the fiery jazz of Chucho Valdés and Irakere, Blas's embryonic vision lacks the punch and compositional clarity of these mature artists. The disc's California chill factor, however, may appeal to some fans, but its transparency may not convince the Latin jazz cognoscenti. --Sam Prestianni
Mambo 2000,Johnny Blas,Cubop Records,Jazz,Jazz Music,Latin Jazz,Pop
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