Review

The David Gordon Trio: The David Gordon Trio Speaks Latin (Nimbus)

A British jazz trio playing Latin jazz, somehow conjures up visions of ersatz bossa-nova rhythms with salsa inflections - the results of which often end up sounding like Edmundo Ros meets The Muppets!

The David Gordon Trio have, however; cracked it! This London-based trio have succeeded in interpreting compositions by legendary South American composers eloquently and stylishly. Making their own musical statements, while retaining the feel and originality of the music. This their fifth album to date, their first for Nimbus Alliance.

Their take on traditional South American pieces, arranged by pianist David Gordon, combine to offer a real South American feast. We get unique versions of popular music that captured the spirit of the '60s and '70s, together with David Gordon’s own compostion ‘Sambova.’ They also give us "Chorinho" by pianist and composer Lyle Mays.

Haunting melodies from songs like "Angelita Huenmann," by Victor Jara and "Tonada de la luna llena," by influential Venezualan songwriter Simon Diaz, contrast with the Gordon's outright funky arrangement of "Duerme Negrito", the latter which builds from Jonty Fisher’s introductory bass playing sat on top of a solid piano groove, perhaps reminicent of Ramsey Lewis or Ahmad Jamal in full flight.

Throughout this album, the trio are held in place rhythmically by drummer Paul Cavaciuti who displays a consistent "simpatico" with piano and bass.

Please note: This band is not a pianist with a drummer and bass player backing him. It is very much an ensemble effort, and they all bring their respective skills to the party. Recorded at famed Rockfield Studios, Monmouth, they deliver exemplary audio quality too, to enhance our listening pleasure so to speak.

If you have ever contemplated exploring the rich world of Latin American music, but didn’t know quite where to start, hesitate no more. David Gordon and his pals have done all the hard work for you.

Impressive stuff from an impressive British trio, who I am sure have a lot more to say in the future. I'm all ears.....
Words SIMON REDLEY