Cuba's Buena Vista Social Club is renowned for the liveliness of its octogenarian performers, including the late singer Ibrahim Ferrer, but several members of the band are much younger. One of the youngest (and arguably one of the coolest, in a line-up of distinctly cool individuals) is pianist Roberto Fonseca, who is only now releasing his debut solo album.
He cooks up a compelling stew of traditional Cuban and other Latin rhythms, jazz and a few classical influences in a blend that seems to be constantly fizzing with ideas and possibilities. Other BV members, including bass maestro Cachaíto Lopez and singer Omara Portuondo, help out on a record that gives the impression of taking the BV template to the next level. All of which serves to demonstrate that there's more to Cuban music than the older generation.
Recorded in Cuba and Brazil, there's a lovely, open and organic sound that genuinely feels as if the listener has stumbled upon a late-night Havana jam session.
