Search - Estrada Brothers :: Get Out of My Way

Estradas do it their own way

Denise | Central New York for now :-) | 09/05/2000

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The vibraphone's legacy continues in this spirited 1996 major label debut by one of the mainstays of Latin jazz in Southern California. Adding their own flavor to instrumental standards such as "Tin Tin Deo," "Blue Moon," and "Besame Mucho," the sextet also displays their lighter side in the release's title cut, "Get Out of My Way."The Estrada Brothers are Ruben Estrada (vibes, percussion and trumpet), Henry Estrada (saxophone and flute), pianist Joe Rotondi, Jr., bassist Malcolm Ian Peters, drummer Ruben "Cougar" Estrada, Jr., and Raul Rico, Jr., on congas and percussion.The CD offers a few originals including the smooth ballad "Nu Image," but it's the fresh arrangements on the classics that take the listener on a journey of joyous rhythms and swirling harmonies.The Estradas are tight. They play with ease. All the right ingredients for a delightful musical menu with no need for dessert."

Estradas A Pleasant Surprise To Non-Californians............

Robert J. Ament | Ballwin, MO United States | 05/29/2006

(5 out of 5 stars)

"although they have been a staple on the Los Angeles jazz scene since the '50s.



The leader, Ruben Estrada, plays the vibes very much in the style of the late Cal Tjader who was a favorite of mine. Doubtless, this made him an easy selection by Pancho Sanchez for his successful cd, "Soul Sauce: Memories of Cal Tjader". Other earlier influences for the group were Stan Kenton and Tito Puente.



The cd itself is full of expressiveness and musicality.......a good balance between sesitive relaxed balladry and punch provided by trumpet (Ruben again) and saxes and flute by Henry Estrada and a propulsive rhythm accompanyment.



The ballads have a nice fresh sound especially the Rodgers & Hart classic, "Blue Moon", done as a mambo with a clever counter-riff. An original ballad, "Nu Image", has an exquisite piano opening by Joe Rotondi,Jr and features beautiful soprano sax work (the liner says alto) by Henry as well as some very "Tjaderish" vibes work.

Joe's piano and Henry's flute work come to the forefront on Horace Silver's "Nica's Dream", another favorite.



The group chose a well varied program on this outing which provides a setting to display their many talents and provide a very pleasurable listening experience."