And Sammy Walked In

by Sammy Figueroa

Overview

Conguero/percussionist Sammy Figueroa heads a sextet on this date that sounds like a Latinized version of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. The music is essentially hard bop, featuring solos from trumpeter John Lovell, saxophonist John Michalak (who is replaced by Tyler Kuebler on two of the ten selections), and pianist Michael Orta. Of the lesser-known material, the "I Got Rhythm"-based "Eugenology" is most memorable and the other highlights include Cedar Walton's "Bolivia" and Chucho Valdes' "Mambo Influenciado." The final number, "Duermete Mi Cielito," features Figueroa unaccompanied, singing and playing percussion. Hopefully Sammy Figueroa will be able to keep this accessible and swinging group together for many years, keeping alive the traditions of both Art Blakey and Tito Puente. ~ Scott Yanow

Product Details

Release Date:	06/07/2005
Label:	Savant
UPC:	0633842206622
Rank:	130933

Tracks

1. Syncop¿¿ O No
2. Niko's Dream
3. Beb¿¿
4. And Sammy Walked In
5. Eugenology
6. Mirage
7. Bolivia
8. Swimming Gaia
9. Mambo Influenci¿¿do
10. Duermet¿¿ Mi Cielito

Album Credits

Performance Credits

Sammy Figueroa   Primary Artist,Congas,Vocals,Percussion,Sound Effects,Musical Direction
Gotz Kujack   Drums
Nicky Orta   Bass
Tyler Kuebler   Saxophone
Michael Orta   Keyboards,Piano
John Lovell   Trumpet,Flugelhorn,Percussion
John Michalak   Saxophone,Flute

Technical Credits

Rachel Faro   Audio Production,Producer
Sammy Figueroa   Audio Production,Producer,Liner Notes,Executive Producer
Brian Murphy   Arranger
Tyler Kuebler   Arranger
Cezar Santana   Mixing
Brad Wrolstad   Design
Helge Sasse   Executive Producer
Hermeto Pascoal   Composer
Hal Batt   Mixing,Engineer
Michel Camilo   Composer
Carlos Averhoff   Arranger
Ron Taylor   Mixing
John Lovell   Composer
Cedar Walton   Composer