Customer Reviews

Flying South

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

This is one of those CD's with no bad cuts. From the smooth, romantic ballad "Como Rein" and the seductive instrumental "Leyte" to the high energy "Flying South", every track is a keeper. (Sheila E's drums will blow you away on "Flying South".) I bought this CD the day it came out in '96, and I don't think a week has gone by that I haven't played it. If you're a fan of Latin jazz you'll love it. If you're not a fan, Mr. E is sure to win you over.

I have had this CD for about two years now and was browsing to see what other people had said about the album and Pete Escevados music in general.
I enjoy listening to latin jazz, especially where a good bassline is included (see Jimmy Haslip on Red Heat for example) and for me Flying South is a great album. The energy that comes through each performance, even the slow ones, is exceptional.
The CD captures a variety of moods. On the first track, Sheila Es drumming and the support her fellow musicians give her as she develops her solo is incredible! I have yet to hear a more intense piece of music!! The salsa-like bass on track 10 is fantastic, swaying all the way to the end. In fact there is not one track that is a let down. So much energy and none of the limpness/repetitiveness that one tends to experience with smmoth-jazz.

I recommend the CD without reservation. Enjoy!

I really wanted to like this CD. I heard the Pete Escovedo orchestra play a wonderful outdoor concert in the sunshine, and I was still hearing those glorious latin rhythms in head for weeks. But this CD - what a disappointment. Maybe it'll grow on me, but none of the edge that I heard live was there. Instead, just a smooth "light-jazz" sound that might be great for customer service on-hold recording, but isn't really something that I want playing in my living room. This isn't quite elevator music, or even Kenny G -- but it's just not nearly as good as this band can be.

Next time Pete Escovedo comes to town, I'll be first in line for tickets to the live show. I'll probably even buy another couple of his recordings. But next time around, I'll be sure to listen before I buy.