Percussionist
Giovanni Hidalgo's debut as a leader features the arrangements of trumpeter Tommy Villarini, who also contributed four of the nine selections.
Hidalgo's conga, bongo, and timbales are showcased in a variety of settings, with his solos usually being brief and supportive of the other players. "Villa Hidalgo" has a guest spot by
Dizzy Gillespie, altoist
Paquito D'Rivera uplifts "Bahia San Juan," tenor saxophonist
David Sanchez has several spots, "Yuliria" is a piano-conga duet with
Eric Figueroa, and "Ianmanuel" features five percussionists plus
Figueroa's keyboards. Some of the selections are funky and some are more traditional Latin music, with the styles and instrumentation changing from cut to cut. Stimulating music. ~ Scott Yanow