One can probably guess all one needs to know about this album just from the band name and the album title. Yes, here we have a jazz big band (10 musicians) who are fusing together different styles of world music into a new form of jazz. There is something about music from South American which is full of rhythm and emotion, passion and grace, and here that has been brought to the fore with a generous dose of swing, a nice dose of percussion, and music which really grooves. What we have here is a project brought together by Corina Bartra, and as well as his own originals the band seamlessly move through swing and danceable South and Latin American Rhythms. a majestic, Afro-Peruvian Festejo modulating to a swing groove, an exuberant, Amazon-inspired number and so much more. We get music inspired by Brazil. some from Cuba, as well as tracks that feature the Marinera style of Peruvian Creole music

The result is something which is incredibly relaxing, yet at the same time there is a real desire to move to the beat as there is something wonderfully infectious and inspiring about what is taking place before our ears. This is warm and beguiling, perfect for a Summer’s evening and a party where the rum is flowing freely and all anyone wants to do is dance. This is not really music to be sat and listened to, but rather this is what is needed at a party where everyone wants to fiesta. The different brass instruments all take turns in leading, while the pianos sometimes sit behind the melody while at others driving it on, the result always something which is light-hearted and full of soul. This is a thoroughly enjoyable release packed full of layers yet always passionate and taking us on an emotional journey which always involves dance.

Rating: 7/10

Links:
https://coribartra.com/