Conrad Herwig - Another Kind Of Blue - The Latin Side Of Miles Davis (2003) 320kbps

Trombonist Conrad Herwig, who had previously recorded The Latin Side of John Coltrane, is at it again. Another Kind of Blue has versions of the five songs from Miles Davis' Kind of Blue ("So What," "Freddie Freeloader," "Blue in Green," "All Blues," and "Flamenco Sketches") plus "Petits Machins" performed by a Latin jazz nonet. The results are quite enjoyable and, with the exception of the repertoire and a couple orchestrated sections for the ensemble (the introduction of "So What" by Bill Evans and Paul Chambers, and Davis' trumpet solo on "Freddie Freeloader"), the music has little connection to the original Kind of Blue with Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Cannonball Adderley. Instead, the transformation serves as a good excuse for the all-star group to romp and come up with fresh ideas. Herwig, trumpeter Brian Lynch, baritonist Mario Rivera, and flutist Dave Valentin have their moments, but Paquito D'Rivera on alto and clarinet constantly steals solo honors; he is too exciting to be denied. The horns are inspired by a blazing rhythm section consisting of pianist Edsel Gomez, bassist John Benitiz, drummer Robby Ameen, and percussionist Richie Flores. It is particularly interesting hearing such unlikely material as "Blue in Green" and "Flamenco Sketches" turned into Afro-Cuban jazz. Another Kind of Blue is quite successful on its own terms and well worth picking up. ~ Scott Yanow

Personnel: Conrad Herwig (trombone); Paquito D'Rivera (alto saxophone, clarinet); Mario Rivera (baritone saxophone); Brian Lynch (trumpet); Dave valentin (flute); Edsel Gomez (piano); John Benitez (bass); Robby Ameen (drums); Richie Flores (congas, percussion).