Here's a different twist on Afro Cuban Jazz

New York based pianist/composer Joseph Diamond has come up with "Not Your Typical New Yorker", a CD with an easy and pleasant sound. It is smooth Latin jazz, but it is not smooth in the "G" sense of the word. Beautiful melodies, easy and complex at once, interesting changes, sophisticated breaks, subtle but swinging percussion, and cool montunos over a base of light but swinging Afro-Cuban drums and bass make up the sound of this enjoyable recording.

Diamond's performance has a melodic approach that grooves with a Latin touch sprinkled with Brazilian, and classical. He is joined by Drummer Vince Cherico, currently in Ray Barretto's band, and one of the most sought-after Latin jazz drummers in the New York scene thanks to his precise and energetic delivery, and deep knowledge of the rhythms. Bassist Leo Traversa, former sideman to New York Voices, Tania Maria and Astrud Gilberto, delivers an infectious tumbao in the hot pieces and makes his instrument sing in the slower tunes (listen to his dazzling solo in the ballad "Little Past Midnight"). And Drew Francis does a superb job on tenor, flute, and keyboards.

The songs, all written by Diamond, range from lively son or mambo tinged, to soft, lulling melodies. The opening number, "Que Rico," and the title cut have a smooth but infectious Latin feel. "Cuchifrito" has a catchy and pleasant melody. "M&M" is also easy yet with interesting changes. "Julia" is a lyrically beautiful piece with amazing potential, with an intro that alternates between 5/4 and 7/4 and a dazzling melody in 3/4.

Not Your Typical New Yorker is available in stores or at www.josephdiamond.com

Patricia Albela - LA Jazz Scene