Mark Weinstein has long been an important contributor to Latin jazz, even if the flutist is overlooked by many writers. This date focuses on Brazilian music, with his sidemen including two out of three members of
Trio da Paz (guitarist
Romero Lubambo and bassist
Nilson Matta), plus percussionist
Cyro Baptista. Utilizing concert, alto, and bass flutes,
Weinstein has a subtle way with his instrument, focusing on bringing out the best in it rather then showboating with a heavy diet of overblowing. Starting with a hip, lively arrangement of the late
Baden Powell's "Canto de Ossanha," the quartet has a lyrical, light touch.
Weinstein also penned two originals, including the lush, deliberate "Estrelinha" and the more adventurous "Lua e Sol," which initially stretches the traditional conception of Brazilian jazz before moving into more familiar territory. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden