This absolutely classic jazz recording is entitled Portraits of Cuba and is a milestone project of Paquito D'Rivera. Arranged by Carlos Franzetti, the large band ensemble provides an orchestral ambiance akin to the legendary Gil Evan sound with Miles Davis, in the classic "Sketches of Spain." This recording couldn't come at a better time, as it presents an artistic commentary on a national and social transition as it unfolds in a new and evolving Cuba. It is truly a work that will be applauded worldwide as the quality of the writing and performance is at a level few artists are capable of achieving today. Paquito D'Rivera provides some of the most inspired improvisation in his career to date and the material chosen for this recording are familiar classics in the popular Latin music tradition. Best Latin Jazz Album of the 39th Annual Grammy Awards.

Leading an all-star Latin big band, Paquito D'Rivera unleashes the beloved music of his homeland on this Latin Grammy winning album. Following in the tradition of Havana's immortal jazz orchestras, D'Rivera infuses his own stylings with mambo, son, danz¢n and bolero to create an essential musical document. This album won "Best Latin Jazz Album" Grammy at 1st Annual Latin Grammy Awards (2000).

This is an unusual date for Jon Faddis. Doubling on flugelhorn, Faddis avoids his upper register and performs ballads while backed by an ensemble arranged by Carlos Franzetti. Here we hear Faddis working through charts by Carlos Franzetti on a set composed mostly of well-known jazz pieces, set for an unusual orchestra: Faddis plus three brass, seven winds and rhythm.

This absolutely classic jazz recording is entitled Portraits of Cuba and is a milestone project of Paquito D'Rivera. Arranged by Carlos Franzetti, the large band ensemble provides an orchestral ambiance akin to the legendary Gil Evan sound with Miles Davis, in the classic "Sketches of Spain." This recording couldn't come at a better time, as it presents an artistic commentary on a national and social transition as it unfolds in a new and evolving Cuba. It is truly a work that will be applauded worldwide as the quality of the writing and performance is at a level few artists are capable of achieving today. Paquito D'Rivera provides some of the most inspired improvisation in his career to date and the material chosen for this recording are familiar classics in the popular Latin music tradition.

Known for her delightful delivery and delicate vibrato-less soprano, the Sao Paulo-born vocalist/composer/guitarist is equally at ease on melodic ballads as she is on tongue-twisting sambas. A Cash Box reviewer once wrote that "hearing Ana Caram was like a sweet, sunny, wake up call".

Cuban dance music is back! Leading an all-star Latin big band, Paquito D'Rivera unleashes the beloved music of his homeland on this Latin Grammy winning album. Following in the tradition of Havana's immortal jazz orchestras, D'Rivera infuses his own stylings with mambo, son, danz¢n and bolero to create an essential musical document. In keeping with the club's festive spirit, the album opens with the exuberant "Mambo a la Kenton." If that doesn't get you dancing, the irresistable rhythms of tracks like "Chucho" and "Old Miami Sax" will. And when your feet need a brief rest, timeless ballads like "Como Fue" caress your heart.