The leader and founder of
Irakere,
Chucho Valdes is also a brilliant pianist who may be on the same level of
Gonzalo Rubalcaba. He has a very impressive classical technique and is able to hint at such players as
McCoy Tyner,
Lennie Tristano, and
Cecil Taylor without watering down his Cuban heritage. This dazzling set covers a lot of ground with highlights, including "Blue Yes" (which is based on the chords of
Charlie Parker's "Confirmation"), a sensitive
Bill Evans tribute, and several nearly free explosions. Despite the CD's title, the final two of the ten selections add bass, drums, and percussion, and feature
Valdes closely interacting with and pushing his sidemen. Highly recommended. ~ Scott Yanow