Jazz Cubano

Richard Bona, one of most respected jazz bass players from Cameroon often tours with own group playing Cuban and native African rhythms. Here's example of Bona with Mandekan Cubano group playing live at Jazz a Vienne 2012, one of most important jazz festivals in Europe since 1981.

This Afro-Cuban-flavored set features a leaderless all-star sextet consisting of tenor saxophonist Gato Barbieri (who is showcased on around half of the selections), vibraphonist Mike Mainieri, pianist Bob James, bassist Andy Gonzalez, drummer Lenny White, and percussionist Steve Berrios. "Cubano Chant" and Horace Silver's "Nica's Dream" are performed along with some more recent pieces, falling into the general area of Cubop. Everyone fares well, with Barbieri emerging as the main star.

When Corinna Rottschy and I first met to discuss the project DANZÓN CUBANO, I felt that it would be a special collaboration. I never dreamt it would turn out to be one of the most fulfilling and enriching experiences that I’ve ever had. Furthermore, immortalising this project as an album is a dream come true. I have always loved working with an orchestra. My composition teacher, Mr. Tulio Peramo, told me that nothing compares to the feeling you experience when hearing your music being played by an orchestra for the very first time!