Random Notes 11/5/18

Today is the 2 year anniversary of the passing of my good friend Enrique Romero “El Molestoso”, one of the most important  advocates of Latin Music in Spain and in Europe.  He was known as an influential writer, publisher, broadcaster, record producer, graphics artist, avid record collector, catalyst and so much more.  In his honor, I put together a special musical mix for the famed radio station and on-line channel Radio Gladys Palmera which broadcasts out of Barcelona and Madrid.  Check out the mix by visiting www.gladyspalmera.com.  I want to thank my good friend, Jose Arteaga who is the host of the fine program “La Hora Fanatica”.  If you love an eclectic format with an emphasis in World and Latin music, check out Radio Gladys Palmera….

Maykel Blanco Y Su Salsa Mayor came to the United States on a short 6 city tour.  Roccapulco night club in San Francisco was one of the stops of the tour.  They conquered the Roccapulco audience with dynamic showmanship, tight musicianship, great songs and a powerful timba beat that shook the house.  This was Salsa Mayor’s first SF appearance in over 6 years and was a mighty occasion to check these young lions out!!  DJ/mixmaster Walt Digz kept the dance floor packed.  Quite a memorable gig!!….

John Santos has had quite a busy year.  When he is not performing with his fine all star quartet currently comprised of Dr. John Calloway, Marco Diaz, Saul Sierra and David Flores, he is busy curating his “Raices” shows for the Freight and Salvage in Berkeley.  His shows has featured Eddie Palmieri, Miguel Zenon, Ife, Novalima, Omara Portoundo and others.  Santos also teaches the history of Salsa and Cuban music at venues such as the Museum of the African Diaspora.  Santos continues his collaborations with SF Jazz and his all star shows which has frequently featured great collaborators such as Orestes Vilato and Bobi Cespedes….

Be sure to check out these great recent recordings: “Una Noche Con Ruben Blades”, a live recording featuring Ruben Blades with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz At Lincoln Center Orchestra, Chucho Valdes “Jazz Bata 2”, Pedro Bermudez “Arrasando” and Parisian pianist Gerard Naulet with flautist Orlando “Maraca” Valle and percussionist Orlando Poleo “Paris, Havana and Caracas”.  Music to my ears….

Last but not least…let’s say goodbye to two incredible talents, Jerry Gonzalez and Roy Hargrove who left us way too soon.  If you weren’t fortunate to see them when they were here among us, go check out their recorded music.  Both has left extensive and memorable musical creations to enjoy.  RIP Jerry!  RIP.Roy!

Ciao 4 now!!