Guitarist and composer Jose Guzman and The Afro-Caribbean Jazz Collective have recently released their new CD, "Cortadito". This recording reflects Guzman’s rich musical heritage, combining the rhythms of Puerto Rico with the flavor and sophistication of modern jazz. The result is a vibrant and engaging album that highlights both the depth of Afro-Caribbean musical traditions and the creativity of contemporary jazz musicians.
If you are new to Afro-Caribbean jazz, this CD will serve you well as a primer on the subject. The rhythms are infectious and the arrangements are loaded with beautiful percussion and strong horn writing that immediately grab the listener’s attention. From the first track, it becomes clear that rhythm is the engine driving this music, and the band locks into grooves that are both exciting and musically sophisticated.
Guzman proves himself to be a versatile guitarist and composer throughout the album. I was particularly captured by the way he combines memorable melodies with Afro-Caribbean rhythmic structures, blending them seamlessly into a sound that feels both traditional and fresh. His guitar work sits comfortably within the ensemble, guiding the music while still allowing plenty of room for the horns and percussion to shine.
Another strength of "Cortadito" is the outstanding group of musicians Guzman has assembled. The supporting performers on this project are highly skilled professionals who understand this music deeply. The horn section delivers energetic and expressive solos while the percussion team creates a powerful rhythmic foundation that keeps the music moving forward with energy and color.
This CD also helps explain why Afro-Caribbean jazz has been gaining popularity with serious contemporary jazz fans in recent years. The combination of driving rhythms, strong melodies, and improvisational freedom creates music that is both intellectually satisfying and simply fun to listen to.
Everything about this recording has been done well—from the compositions and arrangements to the performances and production. It is a polished and highly enjoyable project.
You should definitely consider adding "Cortadito" to your jazz collection. I am sure you will find yourself playing it often. While I am by no means an expert in Afro-Caribbean jazz, I do know beautiful music when I hear it, and every song on this album is a winner. I have attached two songs both written by Jose Guzman for your listening pleasure. The first is "A Sunday Kind Of Day" played as a slow cha-cha.. The second song is "Orchard Downs" is an up-tempo tune that is named after the apartment complex that Guzman lived in during his time in Puerto Rico.
Playlist
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Orchard Downs
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Holande Pa Uste
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A Sunday Kind of Day
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El Reloj
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Witches Dance
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Terminal 5
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El Volcan
Personnel
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Jose Guzman – guitar, compositions
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Victor Garcia – trumpet
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Brian Stark – tenor saxophone
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Ben Carrasquillo – trombone
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Andrey Goncalvez – bass
Percussion
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Javier Quintana – congas, barril
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Victor Gonzalez – bongos, bell
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Michael Rodriguez – timbales
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Jose Natal – barril
Additional Musicians
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Enrique Chavez – auxiliary percussion (on “Witches Dance”)
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Connor Frederick – trombone (on “Witches Dance”
