Liner Notes -- Going Latin on Jazz St.

Vibist, Trumpeter, Bob DeSena is back with a new recording "Going Latin on Jazz Street." On his last recording, "All that Latin Jazz", Bob and his group introduced us to his exciting and spirited brand of cool -- West Coast Latin Jazz. Without a doubt, Bob has created a sound all his own. His musicianship and style are glaring examples of true talent and of strong desire to make it.

As you will hear in this fine effort, Bob has chosen material that defines the spirit of Latin Jazz. The mix of Vibes and horns makes this recording enjoyable and in my opinion a classic. Bob DeSena has been influenced by all the greats of Latin and Jazz music and his style is a mix of both old and new.

As a broadcaster, it is important for me to have listeners educated into the rich history of Latin Music. It is a true pleasure to have a wonderful musician such as Bob DeSena, on the Latin Jazz scene with a recording that not only is original and fresh but respectful to the traditions of the past.

Bobby and his group know how to swing and as you will hear in the recording, that swing is full of Jazz con Sabor latino. "Isla Mujeres" starts us off with a groovy melody that lends itself to the magic of Bob's vibes. This tasty mambo the perfect tune to get the party started. Fabulous solos from Bob (vibes), Robert Sink (piano), Eric Jorgenesen (trombone) and the legendary, Bobby Loya on Trumpet.

The title track "Going Latin on Jazz Street" showcases the strong trumpet sound of Bobby Loya and is very tasty. This melodic and upbeat mambo is a perfect example of the West Coast Latin Jazz sound, very cool and grooving.

A tune, which demonstrates this group's collective versatility, is the classy Danzon "Una Vez en el pasado" – one time in the past, which Bob dedicates to the memory of his father, Roberto. Bobby Bruce adds just the right touch of elegance and gives this already vibrant tune even more appeal.

The sassy and mellow "Bobby's Chambo" with its opening sway is a composition full of color and spice. Once again, Bob DeSena leads the way with his rich and full sound on the vibes. Listen to the greasy trombone stylings of Eric Jorgensen. I am sure you will dig his solo as much as I did.

To add a different touch of creativity to this session, "Moroccan Mambo" is next with Bob featured on Marimba and he sounds solid. Listen to the strong work of Jon Griffin on the tres guitar. This one has an exotic appeal and is fits in nicely with the Latin Groove.

The soft and gentle "Yvonne, Mi Amor" will touch your heart and soul with it's wonderful melody. Bob composed this one for his special lady and wife Yvonne. The magic and enchanting Violin work by Bob on Vibes and of Bobby Bruce on Violin remind me of all the great boleros of the 60's and 70's with groups like; The Joe Cuba Sextet, Tito Puente, Cal Tjader, Bobby Paunetto and Louie Ramirez. Bob's emotion oozes all over this tune and I would recommend you enjoy this one with a chilled glass of wine with that special someone in your life with the lights down low.

Bob DeSena and his recording "Going Latin on Jazz Street" is a true treat for all that dig the cool and swinging Latin Jazz sound. Just as some of the legends of the past have done before him, Bob carries on the torch of Latin Jazz in fine fashion. Enjoy his wonderful work over and over again. A Gozar con Bob DeSena!

Keep enjoying Latin Jazz
Erik Chico Manqueros
Host/producer The Latin Style of Jazz radio show.
Heard nationwide on the CRN networks

Credits:
Bob DeSena - Vibes, Marimba, Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Robert Sink - Piano
Paul Perez - Bass
Bob Fernandez - Timbales, Hand Percussion
Luca Brandoli - Congas
Jesse Talamantez - Bongos, Hand Percussion
Bobby Loya - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Harry McKittrick - Trombone, Baritone Sax
Eric Jorgensen - Trombone
Joseph Luna - Tenor, Alto and Baritone Sax
Tom Semon - Tenor, Alto Sax
Jon Griffin - Tres Guitar
Bobby Bruce -Violin
Bob DeSena and Robert Sink - Background vocals on Bobby's Chambo
Heather Douglas - Ancient Egyptian Inspirations on Moroccan Mambo

Executive Producer: Bill Lazerus
Produced by: Bob DeSena and Robert Sink
Musical Arranger: Robert Sink
Engineer: Bill Lazerus
Recorded and mixed at: The Sound Department-Bill Lazerus
Mastered at: CMS digital - Ron Boustead