Funk Tango

by Scott YanowDespite the title of the CD, this set does not really feature "funk tango." However, it does showcase Paquito d'Rivera's talents in bebop, Afro-Cuban jazz, Brazilian jazz; on an Astor Piazzolla tango during the adventurous "Milonga 10"; exploring a post-bop groove on the title cut; and on his own classical-type Cuban melody (taken as a clarinet-piano duet with Alon Yavnai), "Contradanza." D'Rivera is in typically brilliant and enthusiastic form on both alto and clarinet, trumpeter Diego Urcola makes a very effective debut on valve trombone in addition to taking several heated trumpet solos, three different pianists all get their spots, and the diverse repertoire makes this a continually intriguing program that will keep one guessing. But when has the great Paquito d'Rivera ever recorded an unworthy set? This CD was nominated in 2007 for a Grammy award as Best Latin Jazz Album.