Inolvidable
The story behindInolvidableis as fascinating and charming as the music itself. The 82-year-old conguero Candido Camero lured 88-year-old vocalist Graciela out of retirement for this project, despite the fact that she was nearly crippled by arthritis. Graciela was a leader in the Afro-Cuban jazz genre for half a century, having been the lead vocalist for both Machito and his Jazz Orchestra and Mario Bauza's band. Inspired by Candido's energy, Graciela positively soars throughoutInolvidable, which tickles the senses with a smorgasbord of sounds, styles and flavors. Age has worn some on Graciela's golden voice, but both artists are in fine form here. Candido's percussion--and the rest of the instrumentation--is easy and unforced. And Graciela's confident, authoritative vocal style is simply unmatched in the genre. Both artists glide and flutter effortlessly throughout the material, makingInolvidablea surprisingly sweet musical treat.--Joey Guerra