Heat Wave

Performer: Cal Tjader
Distributor: Universal Distribution

Notes: Personnel: Cal Tjader (vibraphone); Carmen McRae (vocals); Marshall Otwell, Al Bent, Mike Heathman (trombone); Mark Levine (piano); Rob Fisher (bass); Vince Lateano (drums); Poncho Sanchez (congas, percussion); Ramon Banda (timbales, percussion). Vibraphonist Cal Tjader's final album (he passed away four months later) found his band mostly accompanying singer Carmen McRae. The potentially exciting combination does not really come off that well. The musicians (Tjader, a rhythm section, two percussionists including Poncho Sanchez, and a pair of trombonists) had little to do. McRae sounds OK in the Latin setting, but does not uplift the diverse material (which includes "Besame Mucho," "Evil Ways," "Do Nothing Till You Hear from Me," "Speak Low" and two Stevie Wonder songs), and the effort overall is somewhat forgettable and disappointing. ~ Scott Yanow Carmen McRae steals honors on vocals. Sparkling vocals and vibes. ~ Ron Wynn

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.

Click Here for Shipping Options and Policies

Shipping or Dimension weight in pounds: 0.25