Jazz Timbero

obby Carcasses demonstrates that he is a performer through and through on his 1998 release Jazz Timbero. Meaning "jazz conga player," the title is an excellent example of the ever-blurring line between the Latin music world, and the world of jazz. As a vocalist, Carcasses takes on not only a few Cuban favorites such as "Manisero," but renders with equal skill selections from the other side of the fences like "Misty" and "Summertime." The jazzy selections swing with an unmistakably Cuban groove and V.I.P. rhythm section featuring living legends such as Chucho Valdes and Jose L. Quintana. On the other side of the coin, the Latin original material is treated with fascinating jazz harmony and laced with fat-toned jazz guitar. With an extensive background on-stage as a dancer, actor and vocalist, Carcasses is well known for dramatic, fiery performances. Some of this dramatic element is left lacking in a studio production, but there's plenty of musicianship to make up for it. The band and production style both have a classic style and feel which, while dating the sound a bit, offer an honest vitality that is charming and warm. For those unfamiliar with the musician often called "Cuba's best kept secret," Jazz Timbero will provide a great first impression. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez|

Bobby Carcasses demonstrates that he is a performer through and through on his 1998 release Jazz Timbero. Meaning "jazz conga player," the title is an excellent example of the ever-blurring line between the Latin music world, and the world of jazz. As a vocalist, Carcasses takes on not only a few Cuban favorites such as "Manisero," but renders with equal skill selections from the other side of the fences like "Misty" and "Summertime." The jazzy selections swing with an unmistakably Cuban groove and V.I.P. rhythm section featuring living legends such as Chucho Valdes and Jose L. Quintana. On the other side of the coin, the Latin original material is treated with fascinating jazz harmony and laced with fat-toned jazz guitar. With an extensive background on-stage as a dancer, actor and vocalist, Carcasses is well known for dramatic, fiery performances. Some of this dramatic element is left lacking in a studio production, but there's plenty of musicianship to make up for it. The band and production style both have a classic style and feel which, while dating the sound a bit, offer an honest vitality that is charming and warm. For those unfamiliar with the musician often called "Cuba's best kept secret," Jazz Timbero will provide a great first impression. ~ Evan C. Gutierrez