2013-02-25
For his third Resonance Records release, violinist Christian Howes decided to explore the music of South and Central America, thus the title of the release, Southern Exposure. Focusing primarily on the tango, Mr. Howes has enlisted the help of accordionist, Richard Galliano. Together, with a crackerjack team on piano, drums, and bass, they tackle both original compositions and covers with equal aplomb. The tango tracks here are good. In fact, "Heavy Tango", with its plunky flourishes is awesome. The straight-up jazz pieces, ("Ta Boa, Santa?"), have increased interest as well, simply due to the choice of instruments. With Southern Exposure, Christian Howes has succeeded in making a jazz album that is somewhat avant, yet easy to listen to. Rebecca Ruth
The RH Factor
Distractions
Various Artists
Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars
THE IAN CAREY QUINTET +1
Roads & Codes
NOAH BAERMAN, WAYNE ESCOFFERY, AMANDA MONACO, VINNIE SPERRAZZA, HENRY LUGO
Playdate
DAVINA AND THE VAGABONDS
BLACK CLOUD
PEARL DJANGO
Modern Times
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