Ramón Valle - Take Off (2015)

Ramón Valle has become known as "the Other Face of Cuban Jazz." Though he and his trio members are Cuban, their Latin rhythms are unexpected. This is modern jazz played by Cubans. 'Take Off' is a studio recording that spotlights this distinctive pianists' golden-touch on the keyboard and his gift for creating original memorable melodies.

On 'Take Off' Valle performs several jazz/pop classic standards and originals destined to become new standards. He is supported by double bassist, Omar Rodriguez Calvo, whose imaginative and colourful syncopated playing mirrors Ramón's, has also performed with Roy Hargrove, Mike Stern and Germany's well-known Tingvall Trio; and drummer Ernesto Simpson, whose work has been featured with Herbie Hancock, Paquito D'Rivera, and Richard Bona.

Valle has toured all over the world and has performed at a number of international festivals, such as the London, North Sea, Havana, Montreux, Capetown, Melbourne festivals and others. Internationally published journalist, Scott H. Thompson observes in the liner notes, "Ramón's stage presence is commanding, whether within the ranks of an orchestra or leading a trio. His performances and stage presence are charismatic, his music - intoxicating. No longer a diamond-in-the- rough, he is the perfectly cut gem."

Tracklist:

01. All the Things You Are (3:48)
02. Steps in the Night (3:22)
03. Es una historia (5:02)
04. Trance Dance in Blue (3:32)
05. Hallelijah (5:36)
06. Principe Emano (3:46)
07. Y si volviera (4:15)
08. Levitando (5:40)
09. Cinco Hermanas (3:32)
10. What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life (4:10)
11. Kimbara pa' Nico (3:57)

Personnel:

Ramon Valle (piano),
Omar Rodriguez Calvo (double bass),
Ernesto Simpson (drums).