No, it's not another story about immigration policy.
Starting next week, Dimitriou's Jazz Alley in Seattle will be hosting some of the brightest stars in today's Cuban music. Here's a preview.
Harold López-Nussa Trio January 23 and 24: Continuing the tradition of exceptional pianists hailing from Cuba, López-Nussa also pushes the music forward. He comes from a revered musical family, and the trio includes his brother Ruy on drums.
Chick Corea Trio February 1 through 4: Chick Corea is joined by Cubans this time around at Jazz Alley: bassist Carlitos del Puerto and the master of drums and percussion, Ignacio Berroa. While I'm sure the focus will be on Chick's original compositions (new and old), the Cubans may inspire his "Spanish Heart" to play some Latin Jazz.
Roberto Fonseca April 16 and 17: Known affectionately as "Robertito," Fonseca made his debut at the Havana Jazz Festival when he was 15. He's grown into an adventurous player and composer who brings an abundance of joy to his audiences.
Daymé Arocena April 24 and 25: She's a powerhouse vocalist, steeped in the varied cultures and traditions of Cuba, and determined to add influences from all over the world to her music. Prepare to fall in love with this charismatic performer.
Pedrito Martinez Group May 1 and 2: From earning a dollar per month playing conga drums at a Havana hotel, to touring with award-winning Canadian artist Jane Bunnett, and then becoming the darling of New York City's live music scene: it took Pedrito Martinez only a few years to establish his group as the premier Cuban party band.
Listen for a track from Harold Lopez-Nussa's El Viaje? this week on Saturday Jazz Caliente. And make plans to get out and hear some of this great music live!
Jazz Caliente airs Saturdays at 5:00 p.m. The show is hosted by Robin Lloyd and produced by KNKX Public Radio.
