Keyboardist
Jose Luis Madueno's outing shows off the influence of the Latin side of
Chick Corea and
the Yellowjackets.
Madueno is easily the dominant force, for
Steve Tavaglione makes just three appearances (his tenor solo on "Reflections" is a highlight), flutist Pedro Eustache helps out on two numbers, three songs have a guitarist, and there are one of three bassists on eight of the songs; only drummer-percussionist
Alex Acuna (who is replaced by
Barry Smith on "Moonspark") is on virtually every number.
Jose Luis Madueno displays his Peruvian heritage, along with a strong melodic streak, and performs music open to the influences of pop, fusion and even new age (the ballads are quite lightweight) in addition to straight-ahead jazz. The results (which are not recommended to Latin jazz purists) are enjoyable, if a bit derivative. The playful "Games," a trio rendition of "Nica's Dream" (with bassist
John Patitucci), and the grooving "Waiting for Tomorrow" are the high points. ~ Scott Yanow