The hot chick on the album cover with the blond hair holding a cigar really has nothing to do with the feisty, multifaceted jazz whirlwind created by veteran percussionist
Gumbi Ortiz, but along with the neon flamingo, it beautifully represents the ultra-hipness of this shimmering, joyfully eclectic collection. Have congas, will travel -- that pretty much defines funky and frenetic world of
Ortiz, who brings his rich Puerto Rican/Cuban heritage and a lifetime of eclectic musical influences and experiences -- from jazz fusion, pop and funk to retro-soul, samba and even a hint of Irish jig -- to
Miami. Renowned throughout the world for his nonstop tours over the past 19 years with fusion guitar legend
Al DiMeola, the charismatic conguero gathered a powerful ensemble of jazz greats in fashioning a multicultural tribute to the New York native's adopted home state of Florida, where he has lived since 1980. The first two tracks perfectly capture
Ortiz's multiple music sensibilities. The sizzling "South Beach" begins with a lighthearted
Brandon Fields flute solo and a laid-back Latin groove before evolving into a wacky, way out jazz free for all (highlighted by
Walt Fowler's brash flugelhorn solo). The
Jeff Lorber-produced, smooth jazz friendly "T-Back" captures
Ortiz's spirited pop side. That smooth side comes out again on "In the Groove" (featuring
Jay Beckenstein) but in the middle are some serious fusion excursions that will please everyone who loves "real jazz" and can't stand the pop stuff. There are also a few irresistibly seductive nods to what
Ortiz calls "the
Herbie Hancock funk thing," some tasty samba excursions, a touch of retro-soul and even a taste of gospel. Whether he's going wild and banging his congas on free-form jazz jams, showing his mastery of more subtle rhythmic nuances, or simply supporting the rhythm section behind more straightforward melodies,
Ortiz proves to be an incredible lead performer in his own right. ~ Jonathan Widran