Album Notes

-Critic’s Voice-

…, they draw from both the mainstream and latino jazz tradition with inspiration, a personal style, & certainly deliver the music with an indomitable spirit.
- George W Carroll -
The Musicians' Ombudsman
Ejazznews.com

Two goals, among others, of the band are to honor the rhythms of Mongo Santamaria and to imbue its music with a commercial appeal. On this front they have succeeded.
- Walter Kolosky -
Jazz.com

…, this is a bouncy, party record with a lot of drive that is sure to accent any urban or urban flavored gathering. With some solid jazz chops at the core, this is a fine find for contemporary jazzbos on the hunt for something new.
- Chris Spector, Editor and Publisher -
Midwest Record

Containing sizzling new charts and a fiery performance from the band, this self-titled CD just might be the best Latin jazz album of the year.
- Edward Blanco -
Ejazznews.com

The eight Allen originals and one Charlie Parker standard are all done with a high degree of taste rarely exhibited in today’s jazz. This Latin disc is well worth picking up.
- Thomas R. Erdmann -
JazzReview.com

Their invigorating jazz will cause involuntary spasms of the feet, neck, and hands. The music will make you want to move.
- Gray Hunter -
Blogcritics Magazine

The band,… leans more toward a smoother blend of Latin jazz than authentic, brassy roots music. Yet, that’s exactly what makes their modern interpretations palatable for the masses. There’s plenty to like about this CD
- Nancy Ann Lee -
Jazz & Blues Magazine

This zesty disc mixes small-combo jazz with occasional nods of fusion and world-beat. Trumpeter, composer and bandleader Eddie Allen describes it as an Afro-Cuban/Brazilian group, but, in truth, it’s that and more.
An engaging, fresh project that’s not overly long or overly dramatic.
- Ross Boissonea -
Jazziz Magazine

Salongo is the creation of trumpeter Eddie Allen, a septet with the heart of an orchestra. A Latin fire generated from the exciting rhythm section and a slick, smooth jazz approach to the upbeat melodies that keeps this debut recording for the group burning with non-stop energy.
- Paul J. Youngman - KJA Advocate for VINILEMANIA.NET