Legend of Cuban Percussion
An album that's justifiably titled. Carlos "Patato" Valdes is indeed a legend of Cuban percussion, having played withHerbie MannandTito Puenteamong others, before leading his own ensembles. This record compiles tracks from his twoRitmo y Candelarecordings of the mid-'90s, and an absolute joy it is. Patato's congas percolate at the front of the mix, heading a band comprised of some superb, and often adventurous (check out the piano on "Son de Patato"), Cuban jazz players. But things become especially interesting when African players join the mix on "Kora Son" and "Senor Blues/Mbuka Enoka" as theHorace Silverclassic mutates into West African melody. Throughout it's Patato who's in command, his playing an inspiration to the younger generation accompanying him. He might be in his 70s here, but like theBuena Vista Social Clubmusicians, he's still very much at the top of his game and making a very joyful noise indeed. Age is nothing but a number.--Chris Nickson