J.P. (Juan Pablo) Torres is one of the finest trombonists to come out of Cuba. On his debut for Tropijazz, he welcomes altoist
Paquito D'Rivera to five of the 11 selections and pianist
Hilton Ruiz to three; the two famous guests contribute three originals apiece. However
Torres still dominates the music. The repertoire, which also includes four of
Torres's compositions, alternates heated bop sambas with slower (but still danceable) ballads. The Cuban rhythms are infectious, the trombone solos (which are sometimes mellow and other times a bit frantic) are consistently colorful and
Torres takes a pair of fine vocals (including some scatting on "Four & Como Fue") which mix together two similar songs. Highpoints include
D'Rivera's "Samba for Carmen" and "Who's Smoking." Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow