Irakere

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One of the major music ensembles since 1973, Cuba’s Irakere (led by pianist Chucho Valdes) has always had outstanding musicianship.

This clip, made at the Ver Van Mijn Bed Show in Holland around 1985-86, shows just how stunning the band’s ensemble work could be.

On a rhythmic piece brought in by bata and congas and featuring some group singing led by Oscar Vales, short horn solos alternate with rapid and remarkably tight lines from the full group.

This clip serves as an excellent introduction to the power and brilliance of Irakere.

– Scott Yanow

Jazz on the Tube has an entire section devoted Cuba and its music.

Details here: Jazz on the Tube – Cuba

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