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Richard Pe?a: The Latin Side of Jazz Guitar
ByAt one time during his career, Pe?a left the island and moved to Chicago only to return, later, to where he records this project in San Juan, PR, where he is based. While performing on the electric and classical guitars, the leader is joined by

Roy McGrath
saxophone, tenorb.1988
Jesus Colon
bass, acousticWilliam Garcia
drumsTommy Lee Ramos
percussionThe elements of post-bop and fusion are clearly evident on the explosive opener "Roy's Tune," a percussive number featuring McGrath and the guitarist in pronounced roles, the first of four straight original compositions from the leader. "Cup of Joe" is another swinging tune where the whole band weighs in with an atypical Latin flair that is quite appealing. Perhaps a tribute to the late

Wayne Shorter
saxophone1933 - 2023
Pe?a opens up the superb "Jibaro Steps" on the acoustic guitar with a touch of the classical sound. It is a gorgeous piece of music and one owned by the guitarist as he is the center of the music showcasing his chops on the instrument. The brief Bobby Capo composition, "Sonando Con Puerto Rico" (Dreaming of Puerto Rico), is the first of two cover tunes. The following

Sylvia Rexach
vocals1921 - 1961
Returning to more of his original compositions, Pe?a's "Central Park Ave" seems a perfect marriage of the Latin rhythms and straight-ahead jazz, combining for one sizzling track deserving of repeated spins. The finale, an original piece, "Arro' Con Gandule," features the leader once again on the classical guitar with just a shade of the flamenco style but staying within the Latin jazz genre, closing the session in an appealing and fashionable style.
An impressive outing for the 26-year-old jazz guitarist Pe?a, The Latin Side of Jazz Guitar reflects his deep personal and cultural ties to his homeland and the music that seems to define him. If one can appreciate the genre, this particular album will more than satisfy, it will leave you wanting more. ">
Track Listing
Roy's Tune; Cup of Joe; Wayne's Groove; Jibaro Steps; Sonando Con Puerto Rico; Olas Y Arenas; Central Park Ave; Arro' Con Gandule.
Personnel
Richard Pena
guitarRoy McGrath
saxophone, tenorJesus Colon
bass, acousticWilliam Garcia
drumsTommy Lee Ramos
percussionAlbum information
Title: The Latin Side of Jazz Guitar | Year Released: 2025 | Record Label: Self Produced
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