Manteca by Red Garland, Ray Barretto

Manteca

Available from Amazon
Usually ships in 4 to 6 weeks

Manteca

Features

Audio CD (July 1, 1991)

Number of Discs: 1

Label: Ojc

Catalog Number: 428

Reader Reviews
On "Manteca", we find a traditional trio comprised of Red Garland on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Arthur Taylor on drums, then add Ray Barretto on congas. Does the conga rhythm work with the trio? You'll have to be the judge of that. With two percussionists on this CD, there are some lively solos (some extended) with Taylor and Baretto trading off on "Manteca", "Lady Be Good", and "Exactly Like You". At times, the conga does add an interesting element to these, as well as the other numbers. At other times, the conga rhythm/beat seems a bit repetitive and a little distracting. It's more a matter of personal taste than a reflection on the musicians as they are all clearly talented. Each member of of this quartet gets ample solo time to show off their stuff. Red Garland, who served as a sideman for the Miles Davis Quintet, provides a solid performance whether he's carrying the melody or improvising during his solos and accompaniment. Paul Chambers, another Davis Quintet alumni, serves up fine performances as well and even has a bowed solo in "S'Wonderful". Overall, it's an interesting experiment with an unusual combination that works for me on certain levels, but not on others. For those who are new to Red Garland, or expanding their RG collection, I would first suggest checking out the titles "Red Garland's Piano", "All Kinds of Weather", or "A Garland Of Red".

Back To Top