Global Rhythm (Publication) (p.44) - "[With] a suave interpretation of Coltrane's 'Naima,' a majestic take on Oliver Nelson's archetypal 'Stolen Moments,' a sweeping read of Monk's 'Bemsha Sing,' and a sparkling version of the Gillespie-Pozo chestnut 'Soul Sauce'..."
The Caribbean Jazz Project: Steve Williams (soprano saxophone, alto saxophone); Andy Axelrad (alto saxophone); Luis Hernandez, Vince Norman (tenor saxophone); Rob Holmes (baritone saxophone); Tim Stanley, Greg Reese, Chris Walter, Nick Cooper (trumpet); Dan Drew, Jim McFalls, Ben Patterson (trombone); Mark Morgan (bass trombone); JJ Wright, Harry Appelman (piano); Max Murray (bass guitar); Joe McCarthy (drums, percussion); Roberto Quintero (percussion).
Additional personnel: Dave Samuels (vibraphone, marimba).
Formed in the early 1990s by vibraphonist Dave Samuels, the Caribbean Jazz Project began as a trio featuring percussionist Andy Narell and saxphonist Paquito d'Rivera. In the years since its inception, however, the Project has grown into a big band of nearly 20. The force of the large ensemble, particularly the horns, can be heard on AFRO BOP ALLIANCE. As the title suggests, the music focuses on Afro-Cuban jazz, but there's plenty of mainland Latin influence and North American traditional jazz in the mix (as evidenced by the covers of Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane). Hard-grooving arrangements and stellar playing make AFRO BOP ALLIANCE an exhilarating ride.