Herbie Hancock: Mimosa
Musicians:
Herbie Hancock (piano), Paul Chambers (bass),
Willie Bobo (drums), Osvaldo “Chihuahua” Martinez (percussion)
.Composed by Herbie Hancock
.Recorded: Englewood Cliffs, NJ, August 30, 1963
Rating: 93/100 (learn more)
One of Herbie Hancock's first records as leader features a refreshing take on the concept of "Latin jazz." Rather than making overt gestures, such as the typical guajeos and montunos that pianists normally employ when performing in this style, Hancock—both in his playing and composition—opted for a more subtle approach. Hancock aims to explore the re-centering of his performance in a "Latin" context rather than pandering to any clichéd trope of what "Latin jazz" should sound like. This track is the only one on the album that has a pre-composed chord progression, although much is left up to the moment, including the melody, which, when restated is quite different from its original appearance. Situated in such an open structure, the group's attention to the possibilities of spontaneity infuses this music with engaging vitality.
Reviewer: Mark Lomanno
Tags: 1990s jazz · latin jazz
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