Simpatico

by Evan C. GutierrezGet ready for the real deal, folks. Trumpeter Brian Lynch has moved up in the world, with the release of Simpatico by the Brian Lynch/Eddie Palmieri Project, and yes, they're billed in that order. The lineup is stellar, with virtually every notable name in New York Latin jazz included. Robert Ameen, Edsel Gomez, Donald Harrison, Conrad Herwig, Giovanni Hidalgo, Boris Koslov, Dafnis Prieto, and Yosvany Terry make for quite an ensemble. As could be expected, the arrangements are among the smartest and hippest around. Small wonder considering the bandleaders. Lynch and Palmieri are arguably each the most important Latin jazz voices of their respective generations, thanks in no small part to their writing and arranging abilities. Recorded for the artists owned Artist Share label, the production is crisp and artful. Sonically, Simpatico is probably the finest work that Lynch has to his credit. The record sounds full and punchy, yet plenty warm and vibrant. There's a good deal of stylistic variety, which keeps the group out of the Latin jazz-mambo rut. The tunes breathe, and the exchanges between players are interesting, fresh and constant. Simpatico could easily be the most important record Latin jazz audiences experience this year.