Bill O'connell + Latin Jazz All-stars: Zocalo.
) | Label: Savant Catalog: SCD2129 Format: CD Bill O'ConnellZócalo For years the go-to pianist and arranger for Mongo Santamaria, Dave Valentin, Gato Barbieri, the Fort Apache Band and others, Bill O'Connell has developed a true melding of Latin and Jazz music. His own playing – from its robust chordal comping to its exuberant and sometimes knotty solos – favors a sort of Bud Powell-meets-Chick-Corea sound. Joined by Latin-tinged trombone great Conrad Herwig, on Zócalo O'Connell presents a thoughtful program of originals and a few re-imagined standards including Victor Feldman's “Joshua†and “Surrey with the Fringe on Top.†Saxophonist Steve Slagle, percussion legend Richie Flores and his regular rhythm section make the album a joyous romp filled with energy and high spirits from a powerful voice in Latin Jazz.  Price: $22.98 |