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Luis Munoz: Luz
Muňoz's impressionistic compositions are carefully arranged around a central theme, allowing adequate space to spotlight individual side musicians. The exquisite tango "Amarilis" features violinist Laura Hackstein's wistfully passionate strings as she plays the head with
Astor Piazzolla
bandoneon1921 - 1992
Jonathan Dane
trumpetDane, having played behind many a vocalist and being one himself, anticipates and properly reacts to singer Magos Herrerra evocative articulation of the lush ballad "Testamento/Mas Alla." This haunting piece, with samba rhythms, is dedicated to Muňoz's wife, Holly Ann. Muňoz's own atmospheric percussion and pianist George Friedenthal's sparse notes frame Herrerra's elegant delivery and sensual voice. Dane's dusky, cool horn is in perfect contrast to Herrerra's ardent writing.
Muňoz also showcases the uniquely talented guitarist and songstress Téka Penteriche. The Sao Paolo native's honeyed and smoky vocals and expressive interpretation give the bossa nova "Al Silencio" an engaging and mysterious feel. Muňoz's own brushed drums and Friedenthal's careful utilization of silence and sound further enhance the ambience.
Friedenthal's short, unaccompanied sonata, "Preludio," is intensely lyrical and deeply contemplative. His edgy approach contrasts nicely with Asarnow's more flowing lines as the two take turns soloing on the sublime waltz, "Vals de la Luz," which also highlights guitarist Christopher Judge's classically influenced improvisations, while Gilberto González (another guitarist) closes this delightful record on a high note with his Mexican folk-inspired duet with marimba virtuoso John Nathan.
With this sublime and intriguing work, Muňoz not only demonstrates his adroitness as a composer and a bandleader but also his skill at recognizing and nurturing talent. ">
Track Listing
El Sue?o de Adán; Invisible; Amarilis; Al Silencio; El Sendero de las Aves; Vals de la Luz; Preludio; Testamento/Mas Alla; Entre El Mar y la Tristeza.
Personnel
Luchito Munoz
producerLuis Mu?oz: drums, percussion, background vocals, piano (2-6); Adam Asarnow: piano (1-3, 6); George Friedenthal: piano (4- 8); Tom Etchart: acoustic bass; Jonothan Dane: trumpet, cornet (2); Téka Penteriche: lead vocal (1, 4); Magos Herrera: lead vocal (8); Bill Flores: pedal steel guitar (2); Laura Hackenstein: violin (3); Narciso Sotomayor: acoustic guitar (3); Carlomagno Araya: drums (5); Ramses Araya: bata drums (5); Tom Buckner: tenor sax (5); Christopher Judge: acoustic guitar (6, 8); Gilberto Gonzalez: acoustic guitar (9); John Nathan: marimba (9).
Album information
Title: Luz | Year Released: 2013 | Record Label: Pelin Music
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