Xiomara Luagart – Music 2 my ears

Just wanted to drop a few lines about Xiomara Laugart’s new cd “Tears And Rumba” on Chesky.  A new take on Afro Cuban folklore, rumba, son montuno and boleros from the ex-Yerba Buena vocalist.   Laugart shines throughout the recording with a wealth of material ranging from the moody trova style standard such as Maria Teresa Vera’s “Ausencia” to the danceable son montuno of Miguel Matamoros’ “La Mujer De Antonio”.  Laugart dives into these classic Cuban songs with a lot of soul, heart and feeling.  She is backed by an excellent ensemble comprising of bassist Yunior Terry, guitarist Roman Lajara, flautist Javier Porta, percussionist Luisito Quintero, vocalist Gerardo Contino and her son Axel Tosca Laugart, the musical director on the date on vocals and clave.   Laugart serves up a heartfelt musical stew that isn’t your typical Cuban fare.  It’s moody and aspires to reach deep into monte adentro.  It’s worth the effort to join her on this journey.