Cubanismo!
Reencarnacion (Hannibal)
Cubanismo, Jesus Alemany’s all-star orchestra, is that rarest of Cuban ensembles: a technically brilliant group that’s neither nostalgic, like Orquesta Aragon, nor fakirs of fusion, like the high-brow Irakere or the more streetwise Los Van Van. Cubanismo!, which employs masters such as Tata Guines on percussion, Irakere’s Carlos del Puerto on bass and vocalist Rolo Martinez, is a mix of old and new: Next to the old timers are youngbloods like Alemany himself on trumpet, Pancho Amat on tres and pianist Ignacio Herrera. They jam on trad rhythms, they play timba with a rare and passionate virtuosity. On the aptly titled “Reencarnacion,” the group leans considerably heavier toward Cuban trad styles than to jazz. Here the cornerstone is the savory son, with such classics as “El Platanal de Bartolo” and Arsenio Rodriguez’s “Con Mana se Rompe” getting respectful but fiery arrangements while Alemany introduces six new compositions that spring from the same robust fountain. The wonder of Alemany’s Cubanismo! is the smooth blend of familiarity and innovation.