Album Of The Week: Chick Corea & The Spanish Heart Band-“Antidote”

I must say I love Chick Corea’s work…his music is always so full of life. This is especially true when he moves into Latin Jazz compositions which as a general rule take on a life of their own, transporting you to another place and time. “Antidote” is my album of the week because it does just that. It’s also exceptionally well recorded. I dare you to take a listen to this album, close your eyes and just let it take you away. You can thank me later. Favorite Song: “Antidote” (MQA Tidal Stream Below)

From WBGO.org:

Corea, who at 77 is an NEA Jazz Master and the recipient of nearly two dozen Grammy awards, has now formed an octet he calls The Spanish Heart Band. A new album by this group, Antidote, will be released on Concord Jazz on June 28.

At the core of the eight-piece band is a sterling rhythm team: bassist Carlitos Del Puerto, originally from Cuba, and drummer Marcus Gilmore, the grandson of longtime Corea associate Roy Haynes. Last year, Corea enlisted these same musicians for a riveting trio date featured on Jazz Night in America.

Also in the ranks are trumpeter Michael Rodriguez, trombonist Steve Davis, saxophonist and flutist Jorge Pardo, and percussionist Luisito Quintero. Two notable flamenco artists, guitarist Niño Josele and dancer Nino de los Reyes, are prominently featured on the album’s lead single, “The Yellow Nimbus – Part 2,” which has its exclusive premiere on WBGO.