“Soft As Granite” is a lively Latin-jazz release from Janine Santana that combines traditional and authentic Afro-Cuban rhythms with mainstream jazz and elements of funk to create a exceptional, vibrant sound. The musicianship is of the highest order, with great horn solos and bebop lines floating on top of Santana’s rhythmic and intricate percussion patterns. Listen to “Close Your Eyes” for spirited vocals, great horn section arrangements, and a soaring trumpet solo. Even on the calmer tracks such as “Dignificada,” the intense passion is still there, with Santana’s percussion providing many textures and colors over rhythmic piano and horn figures. One bright spot is a clever arrangement and fiery interpretation of Freddie Hubbard’s classic “Red Clay”. The production is clear and crisp throughout, with every instrument having a distinctive place in the mix. Another definite highlight of this collection is an incredibly funky rendition of “Big Brother” by Steve Wonder. This is a particularly respectful version, with the style and vocals revealing a mysterious resemblance to the original artist. This album features a unique blend of the traditional folkloric Afro-Cuban rhythms with the more contemporary styles of Mainstream Jazz and Funk, and is highly recommended for any fan of Afro-Cuban music or Latin-jazz.
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