Tino Contreras
latin jazz // tropical
Pioneering Mexican drummer and composer, Tino Contreras was born in 1928 in Chihuahua, Chih., first appearing on Jazz in Mexico – The Legendary 1954 Sessions, and has recorded over 40 albums to date. El Jazz Mexicano De Tino Contreras (2011) showcases his ingenuity of styles absorbed from world travels, containing ritual chants, free jazz, waltz, psychedelia, devout choirs and microtones to name a few. However, the wonderful arrangements and successful rhythms of Jazz Tropical (1962) is the overall aurgasm for my taste. Double bass swings through proclaiming horns, having congas aplenty and occasional shouts to keep me moving. Tino’s drum solo in “Conversacion” is a highlight, but the cascading piano of his take on Ernesto Lecuona’s “La Malagueña” and lively swagger of “Night in Tunisia” is what I most enjoy.
Invigorating jazz with Latin spices moving your feet.
Tino Contreras – Noche en Tunisia
Tino Contreras – La Malagueña
+ Purchase/Visit
Latin jazz consistently is just amazing, and this guy is up at the top among any I’ve heard. This version of La Malaguena is a must have for every iPod worth programming.