Arturo Sandoval & the Latin Jazz Orchestra

by Scott YanowTwo of Arturo Sandoval's early-'80s records, Turi and one called Arturo Sandoval, are reissued in full on this single CD. Recorded shortly after Sandoval left Irakere and while he was still in Cuba, these sets vary widely in the material. While Sandoval proves throughout that he is technically one of the greatest trumpeters alive, the material, particularly on the second album, is closer to pop than jazz, even including hints of disco rhythms. "Blues en Dos Partes" is a tribute to Clark Terry and Dizzy Gillespie that has Sandoval stretching out on the blues, but he mostly just sticks to the melody on "Maria," "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life," and most of the second album. The orchestras are often bombastic and the music overall can be considered instrumental pop with just touches of jazz here and there although pianist Hilario Durán is a strong asset. So although historically significant due to the time period in which it was recorded, this CD is only of moderate interest, particularly compared to the great Arturo Sandoval albums that were to come.