Danilo Perez
Providencia
Mack Avenue Jazz
www.mackavenue.com
By George W. Harris

Pianist/composer Danilo Perez has recorded in a wide variety of contexts, from outside and wondrous post bop with Wayne Shorter to his own orchestral works like Panama Suite and Across The Crystal Sea which hearken to Claus Oberman/Tom Jobim recordings. On this latest release, Perez tries to do a little bit of everything from his background, ranging from fiery Latin work with his trio members Ben Street/b and Adam Cruz/dr (“Galactic Panama”)to enticing chamber music with a woodwind quintet (“Bridge of Life”). Guests like saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa, percussionist Jamey Haddad, percussionist Ernesto Diaz and vocalist Sara Serpa mix and match on this sonic kaleidoscope. The various trios to octets range in dynamics and effect, with the pair of duets with Mahanthappa fascinating in their contrasting moods. The ten minute “Daniela’s Chronicles” is like a sonic “Soar Over California” adventure ride, taking the listener through a myriad of different environments. Passionate throughout, this has something for just about everyone.