Hery Paz

Aiming for that sweet spot where a variant of Cuban music meets free improvisation, Cuban-born New York-based multi-instrumentalist Hery Paz is joined by two rhythm makers for a unique sonic concoction. Although his partners – drummer Franciso Mela and percussionist/vocalist Román Díaz – are also Cuban, the 10 tracks aren’t restricted to stereotypical spicy Latin cadences.

Paz, who has also worked with the likes of Nate Wooley, even begins the session with “Calle Libertad”, a lilting f delicate lute piece; while a couple of other tunes, especially “El Real de las Palmas’, where it’s linked to unforced drum rattles, feature his minimalist piano comping behind Díaz’s dramatic recitations in Spanish.

Elsewhere though, the three demonstrate their affiliations with exploratory sounds. As Díaz’s responsive conga and bongo-like rhythms stimulate the tracks with vivid coloring, Paz and Mela involve themselves in stimulating drums-tenor saxophone exchanges. Intense and jagged, saxophone overblowing and flutter tonguing often create even more emotional expositions as doubled paradiddles and cymbal shivers from Mela’s regular kit are enhanced by Diaz’s pulsating palm slaps.

Dexterous reed asides on a track like “Communión” can be long-lined and irregularly spaced or as on “Arroyo Lajaz”, be built up note upon note and tone upon tone. each time encouraged by verbalized yells from the players.

Paz’s one detour into tradition occurs on “Conga Espirituna” where his blowing of the brassy Cornta China joins triangle pings, cowbell slaps and other idiophone beats to create an episode of Cuban carnival-echoing gaiety.

This contrasting Latin interlude also confirms the skill with which the trio members have constructed this exclusive and distinct Cuban-improv mélange. Jardineros translates as gardeners and the CD showcases the verdant music the three have nurtured into flowering. For more info visit 577records.com

–Ken Waxman

Track Listing: 1. Calle Libertad 2. Jardineros 3. Arroyo Lajaz 4. El Real de las Palmas 5. Conga Espirituna 6. Miel de la Tierra 7. Lenguas del Tambor 8. Communión 9. Pensamiento 10. Barrio del Jobo

Personnel: Hery Paz (tenor saxophone, flute, piano, Cornta China, Sona ); Francisco Mela (drums) and Román Díaz (percussion and voice)