Almendra

Mozart: Flute Quartets, an enchanting musical journey performed by the talented Cuarteto Almendra and released by VDE-GALLO, captures the timeless brilliance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's compositions. The quartet's impeccable musicianship breathes life into Mozart's intricate flute quartets, showcasing a perfect blend of virtuosity and sensitivity. Cuarteto Almendra's nuanced interpretation adds a refreshing and vibrant dimension to these classical masterpieces, making the album a delightful exploration for both connoisseurs and newcomers to Mozart's oeuvre.

The most jazz-oriented of the elderly musicians in the Buena Vista Social Club, pianist Ruben Gonzalez was 77 at the time of this CD, his debut as a leader. Although he did not even own his own piano at the time, he plays brilliantly, performing a variety of traditional melodies plus two originals, often quoting other songs and really stretching himself. His chord voicings are distinctive and very inviting, his control of the piano is quite impressive, and the music sings its heart out. The CD was recorded spontaneously over a two-day period with Gonzalez mostly being the lead voice, assisted by trumpeter Manuel Mirabal (who has some fine solos), bassist Orlando "Cachaito" Lopez, several percussionists, and occasionally three background singers. This set is impossible not to love.

Mango Santamaria utilizes a colorful cast of musicians on this CD. Flutists Hubert Laws and Dave Valentin are featured on two songs apiece (although unfortunately not together) and the nonet has trumpeter Eddie Allen, altoist Jimmy Cozier, and Craig Rivers on tenor and soprano, along with three percussionists. There are a lot of percussion features including the closing nine-and-a-half minute "La Mogolla," making this an excellent if not quite essential recording.