Guitarist Rafael Rosa mixes and matches with a surfeit of talent here, which includes Kenny Werner/p, Jen-Michel Pilc, John Benitez/b and Michael Rodriguez/tp. Most of the material here, as on “ Bomba Oscura,” is intricate, sophisticated and tricky. Benetiz’s bass is remarkably busy throughout, but gets a spotlight on “Devotion” while some wonderfully passionate Spanish moods mingle around Melanie Lozano’s voice on “Looking For.” Subtle and gentle rhythms seem best suited to Rosa, as he picks winners on the quiet and seductive “Portrait: Of A Woman” and the softly skipping “Portrait: Among the Clouds.” Much to be impressed by on this mix of intellect and passion.
www.rafaelrosamusic.com