CD review: Michel Camilo – Essence 2019: Video, CD cover

He is a composer and pianist extraordinaire. He is a bandleader, lecturer, and visiting professor. He is a chart-topping producer; a Grammy, Latin Grammy and Emmy award winner.

He is the recipient of his native country’s highest civilian honours. The artistry and virtuosity of Michel Camilo bridges the genres of Jazz, Classical, Popular and World music.

“ESSENCE marks my 25th album. This milestone recording is a celebration of the flowing dynamic creativity and interactive energy between my rhythm section and a top-notch horn section, as we explore together the challenging virtuoso passages and exciting unexpected turns in some of my most well-known compositions which are now here presented in a larger format. The exhilarating “ensemble tightness captured on these superb performances have always been an important signature element of my musical stylings. Recording this special project was BIG FUN and I am really thrilled to share it with all of you!

Tracklist:

1. And Sammy Walked In
2. Mongo’s Blues Intro
3. Mongo’s Blues
4. Liquid Crystal
5. Mano a Mano
6. Just Like You
7. Yes
8. Piece of Cake
9. On Fire
10. Repercussions
11. Hello & Goodbye