Jose Lopretti

Candombe is the name of a rhythm that comes from Jose Lopretti's native Uruguay, and it is among the Latin rhythms that the pianist/keyboardist/bassist employs on this post-bop/fusion CD. However, it would be a mistake to think that candombe is the only Latin rhythm that excites Lopretti--on Candombe, the improviser also incorporates everything from Argentinean tango and Afro-Brazilian rhythms to the Andean music of Peru. The result is a rewarding, melodic and fairly unpredictable date that illustrates Lopretti's talents as both an improviser and a composer. The South American, in fact, wrote all of the thoughtful compositions on this album, which ranges from the poetic "Florita" and the charming "Ciudad Vieja" to the Chick Corea-ish "Trigueñas." Released in Holland on Challenge, Candombe reached North American stores as an import. ~ Alex Henderson, All Music Guide