BOOK: Afro-Cuban Jazz : Third Ear - The Essential Listening Companion by Scott Yanow. 500 Recordings Reviewed (BOOK)
Through anecdotal biographies and evocative photos, this book by jazz author extraordinaire Scott Yanow portrays every key Afro-Cuban Jazz innovator past and present, plus other jazz artists influenced by this infectious music. Also includes reviews and ratings of recordings that make (or don``t make) the cut, and essays packed with historical insight not found in other guides. Musicians covered include: Tito Puente, Cal Tjader, Willie Bobo, Machito, Poncho Sanchez, Chucho Valdes, Arturo Sandoval, Mongo Santamaria, Gato Barbieri, Eddie Palmieri, and many more. 500 Recordingss reviewed & rated.
"This is the largest and most comprehensive book on Afro-Cuban Jazz that I’ve ever seen!" -- Poncho Sanchez.
Paperback: 214 pages
Published December, 2000
Within the biographical entries are listings of recommended recordings on CD. In cases where an artist`s music is not yet available on CD, Yanow furnishes out-of-print LPs worth searching for. There is also a "Various Artists" list, a useful way to get a feel for a variety of performers.
This is valuable. Especially for those unfamiliar with this music, Afro-Cuban Jazz should prove to be an indispensable resource. Recommended for public, academic, and music libraries
Excellent introduction to the style