Sunday, March 10, 2024Back by popular demand, SON ENRICO! And they played their hearts out to a packed house at SOhO. With fabulous arrangements by leader, John Douglas, the excellent players were definitely inspired. John gave new life to classical themes by adding exciting Latin rhythms full of montunos to compositions from Brahms to Revel’s Bolero. For those not familiar with the word montuno, it refers to a syncopated, two measured pattern played by the pianist. And John used this exciting device on almost every tune.
The amazing Andrew Martinez was featured on every piece either on tenor sax or flute with pianist, John and the rest of the rhythm section, bassist Santino Tafarella, drummer Elias Vasquez, and conguero Gary Craigwell… all fabulous musicians.
Many of the tunes were familiar, but not all and John introduced each and gave a short intro as to the composer and where they originated. Some of the more memorable pieces were the exciting Mas Que Nada, introduced by Brazil 66 with a terrific tenor solo by Andrew. Bassist, Santino was featured on Poinciana along with Craig on congas. Drummer, Elias had a super drum solo on Cast Your Fate to the Wind. We were even treated to a rhythmic, Rhapsody In Blue. It was truly a spectacular afternoon of fabulous music played to perfection by outstanding musicians and they are all local! Another reason we are so lucky to live in Santa Barbara.
Photography by Rob Hoffman
SON ENRICO March 2024
