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Russ Spiegel: Caribbean Blue
By
Russ Spiegel
guitarb.1962
While everything on offer is respectable, it is the album's midsectiontracks 3-8that rise above the others and lend the session much of its vitality and charm. After harmonica virtuoso

Hendrik Meurkens
harmonicab.1957

Brian Lynch
trumpetb.1956

Tim Armacost
saxophone, tenorb.1962

Javier Nero
tromboneThe session's lone ballad, "Inquietude," whose Portuguese lyrics are handsomely sung by

Ben Beal
vocals
Jim Gasior
piano
Lucas Apostoleris
drumsThe tracks not yet mentionedwhich are fine, but a step or so below the othersare "The Underdown Groove," "E. 22nd St." and "Smooth Move." As far as can be determined, Meurkens appears on four tracks including the brief finale, "Coda," trombonist Nero on the two songs already noted. Elsewhere, the group is basically a quartet or quintet with Lynch and/or Armacost on the front line. Considered end to end, Caribbean Blue is a well above average session with a number of pleasurable moments and first-rate performances by all hands. ">
Track Listing
The Underdown Groove; E.22nd St; Caribbean Blue; Island Song; Slippery Slope; Inquietude; Retribution Blues; The Streets of Milan; Smooth Move; Coda.
Personnel
Russ Spiegel
guitarJim Gasior
pianoLucas Apostoleris
drumsBrian Lynch
trumpetTim Armacost
saxophone, tenorJavier Nero
tromboneHendrik Meurkens
harmonicaBen Beal
vocalsAlbum information
Title: Caribbean Blue | Year Released: 2023 | Record Label: RuzzTone Music
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