Search - Carlos Patato Valdes :: Masterpiece

Many great moments

Braddock Jones | Rockville, MD United States | 09/17/2000

(4 out of 5 stars)

"This is Cuban-born Carlos "Patato" Valdes's only "solo" record that I know of. The recording is interesting because it featured a collaboration between Patato and pianist/arranger Jorge Dalto. The original sessions were never finished, as Dalto became too ill. 7 of the 9 tracks are from the original sessions; the other two feature Michel Camilo stepping in to fill Dalto's piano spot. The line-up is stellar. Steve Berrios and Jerry Gonzalez (from the Fort Apache Band) appear on drums and trumpet (respectively). Nicky Marrero, the great timbalero from Willie Colon's band in the sixties, appears on six tracks. Andy Gonzalez plays bass. The personnel is flawless, basically. The songs are very good as well. "Felice Navidad" is a percussionist's dream. Nicky Marrero and Patato set up an interlocking, hypnotic and propulsive groove that lasts several minutes. "Tonan Che Cabildo a Ochun" is an Afro-cuban religious (or Santeria)-type piece that is moving and rhythmically astounding. "El Montuno de Patato" is, as one would expect, another showcase for percussion. The only selection I don't like is the bolero-type vocal number "Reflexionando". Everything else is first-rate."

The bolero on this one....

Gabriel Eisenband. | Colombia | 04/22/2001

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I'm just writting this up so you know that the bolero "reflexionando" featured in this album is one of the best ever to be put on record. Dalto's piano solo is desgarrante. It kind of hurts to hear him feel that way. He was very ill at the moment and died shorlty afterwards. Listening to this piece you'll find an artist letting go of everything for nothing... Great... The whole album pays... in case you were just wondering."