Cuban Fantasy

Performer: Cal Tjader
Artist: Clare Fischer; Poncho Sanchez
Distributor: Ryko Distribution

Notes: Personnel: Cal Tjader (vibraphone, timbales, percussion); Clare Fischer (electric piano); Bob Redfield (guitar); Rob Fischer (bass); Pete Riso (drums); Poncho Sanchez (congas, percussion). Recorded live at The Great American Music Hall, San Francisco, California on June 17-18, 1977. Includes liner notes by Mark Holston. Cuban Fantasy consists of previously unissued selections from two 1977 concerts by Cal Tjader at the Great American Music Hall in San Francisco, though this is anything but an example of clearing out tape vaults simply to issue new product. Joined by pianist Clare Fischer, conga player Poncho Sanchez, guitarist Bob Redfield, bassist Rob Fisher, and drummer Pete Riso, Tjader energizes the crowd with his interpretation of Ray Bryant's infectious "Cuban Fantasy," switching over from vibes to timbales to build it to an exciting climax. Fisher contributed the subtle "Guarabe," while the engaging arrangement of Mongo Santamaria's "Tu Crees Que?" would have had the audience on their feet dancing had this been recorded outdoors. This is one of Cal Tjader's best groups, and it is a shame that this music remained hidden for a quarter century. ~ Ken Dryden

Because he was a crossover success, vibraphonist/percussionist Cal Tjader received his share of derision from both sides of the jazz/Latin fence. However, his sincere interest in Latin rhythms and their potential for blending with cool jazz led to a groundbreaking fusion of the two, and a genuine hit with the tune "Soul Sauce" in 1965. An important conduit between the two styles, he helped bring percussionists Mongo Santamaria and Willie Bobo to a much wider audience. With practically a life lived on tour, it's almost fitting he was on the road (in the Phillipines) when he passed away at 56 in 1982.

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