Chick Corea is the epitome of jazz, the living legend whose music encouraged me as a youth to dance to jazz, notably to the classic Samba Song. You see, I danced funk but was always Kind of Jazz.
There has always been a strong Spanish notation running through Corea's genes. This 77-year-old keyboard virtuoso could not avoid this serendipitous journey and has returned to his 'Spanish Heart'. The album is heavily Spanish, Latin and Flamenco influenced as exemplified in Zyrab and its hypnotic 6/4-time signature. Corea’s creativity has a purpose and is pinpoint focused. Flamenco dancer Nino de los Reyes is incredibly talented, and her timing is impeccable. The sound of her footwork is astounding and passionate dancing to the background of a strong melody. The distinct palmas (handclapping) and pitos (finger snapping) accentuate this compelling piece of music. Niño Josele is an extraordinary guitar player. He is often referred to as the exponent of the ‘New Flamenco’ style.
Chick has brought the ‘best of the best’ together for this momentous release featuring acclaimed Panamanian vocalist Rubén Blades and Gayle Moran Corea (Mahavishnu Orchestra), Maria Bianca, trumpeter Michael Rodriguez, trombonist Steve Davis, who with Rodriguez form an unstoppable front-line horn. They are the ‘wall of sound’. Marcus Gilmore follows in the footsteps of his grandfather Roy Haynes, the master drummer.
This album revisits classic tunes from the bandleader’s previous albums My Spanish Heart and Touchstone along with new compositions.
Antidote presents a pleasant collection of the arts. What Corea has achieved is nothing short of outstanding. He is the fluid-genius, continually adapting and filling the voids of jazz, folk and classical music.
Percussionist Luisito Quintero who is in constant demand and has worked with the likes of Louie Vega, is the master of Armando's Rhumba. You see, not all Rhumbas’ are Rhumbas’, yet this is the Rhumba that will have you dancing like no one is watching. It's a dynamite track and a pleasure to listen to. Each instrument taking turns to showcase their traditional styles with a contemporary feel. Cuban bassist Carlitos Del Puerto gets a big high-five for his steady vibe. Keeping the simple bassline hits the sweet spot. Del Puerto features on Corea's 2017 collaboration album Chinese Butterfly with legendary drummer Steve Gadd, as did Quintero.
The opening track Antidote features gifted vocalist Rubén Blades. The pitching and tonal balance fill me with joy for it is a happy and passionate song full of vibrant pulsating rhythm. It reminds me very much of Irakere's dancing rhythms. This track features a strong horn section lead by Rodriguez, but I can't help return to that haunting bass. Wow!
My Spanish Heart featuring Ruben Blades and Gale Moran Corea and may stop you in your tracks. Forget what you were doing and what you are about to do, there is no time for nothing else, but to enjoy the caressing melody and vocals which are intertwined like a DNA helix.
Listen to My Spanish Heart here:
The overall feel of the album is as light as a feather. However, its roots are firmly cast in a solid foundation.
The only adverse comment I feel I must make is about Desafinado (track 8). There is no fade out. There is no outro. It just ends without a cue. Not even a goodbye. It’s a shame it happed on any track, let alone this bossa-nova classic composed by Antônio Carlos Jobim
Chick Corea's journey is an interesting and exciting one.
