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Arturo Stable: Cuban Crosshatching

By Mark F. Turner
January 27, 2013
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Seemingly under no duress to prove himself, exceptional percussionist Arturo Stable exudes confidence in any number of situations, whether playing with the great

Paquito D'Rivera

clarinet
b.1948

" data-original-title="" title="">Paquito D'Rivera, adding rhythmic Cuban flavors to the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra or leading his own band in its memorable 2007 debut, Notes On Canvas (Origen Records). A conceptualist who incorporates ethnic music with other influences, his sound represents more than typical Latin percussion. Stable's thoughtful perspective illuminates Cuban Crossinghatching, which he states "is the result of a few months of research trying to glue my musical past with my present."

Brought to life by an outstanding band, this inventive set is aesthetically pleasing, vividly imagined, and filled with melodicism and space. Guitarist

Lionel Loueke

guitar
b.1973

" data-original-title="" title="">Lionel Loueke demonstrates his unique versatility—providing stimulating comps on the sultry "Havana Lights" or stylistic fingering on the mid-tempo swinger "Mr. Brake." Saxophonist

Seamus Blake

saxophone
b.1970

" data-original-title="" title="">Seamus Blake's rousing work encompasses emotion and nuance on the luxurious "Danz��n de Gloria" or fire-baptized runs alongside Stable's infectious percussion on "Duet with Sax."

The presence of Mexican-born singer

Magos Herrera

vocals

" data-original-title="" title="">Magos Herrera on the compelling "Pienso en t��" only adds to the enjoyment; her lovely voice complimented by the group's elegant support. The unfaltering focal point of bassist

Edward Perez

bass, acoustic
b.1978

" data-original-title="" title="">Edward Perez is the anchor, highlighted on "Let It Be Spring" and the abstract-leaning "Tinto." Stable's writing is empathetic and democratic; exposing each musician's artistry while subtly and expertly revealing skills marked by touch and emotion including some extraordinary piano chops on "Duet with Guitar 2," as the percussionist and Loueke exchange in a gentle dialogue. Its pleasant surprise is consistent with the project's vibe—illuminating Stable's thoughtfulness as a musician and composer.

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Track Listing

Havana lights; T��ita; Mr. Brake; Pienso en t��; Reverence; Duet with Sax; Danz��n de Gloria; Duet with Voice; Let it be Spring; Habana del Este; Letters to Luz; Tinto; Duet with Guitar 2.

Personnel

Arturo Stable

percussion

Arturo Stable: compositions, arrangements, percussion, piano (13); Lionel Loueke: Guitar; Seamus Blake: saxophones; Edward Perez: bass; Magos Herrera: vocals (4, 8).

Album information

Title: Cuban Crosshatching | Year Released: 2013 | Record Label: Origen Records

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